THE SCIENCE & PHILISOPHY

SAUNA

Heat • Relaxation • Recovery • Restoration

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is It?

Traditional sauna creates a controlled heat environment that raises body temperature and increases physiological demand.

Infrared saunas use infrared energy to warm the body directly, while traditional saunas primarily heat the surrounding air.

Both create heat exposure, but the experience and operating temperatures can differ.

Who Is It For?

Sauna may be a natural fit for people seeking:

• Relaxation

• Recovery

• Stress reduction

• A post-training wellness ritual

• Heat-adaptation practices

• A consistent evening or restorative routine

Why Consider It?

Heat can create a powerful yet restorative experience.

For many people, sauna becomes less about a single "benefit" and more about creating dedicated time to slow down, recover, disconnect, and restore.

Regular sauna use has also been associated in observational research with several health outcomes, although those associations should not be interpreted as proof that sauna itself causes those outcomes.

What are the Potential Benefits?

Regular sauna use may support:

• Relaxation

• Temporary muscle comfort

• Circulation

• Sweating and thermoregulation

• Post-exercise recovery

• Stress management

• Overall wellness

What Is an Infrared Sauna?

Unlike traditional saunas that heat the surrounding air, infrared saunas use infrared and near-infrared light to heat the body directly. This allows for a deeper, more comfortable heat experience while operating at lower temperatures.

How It Works

• Infrared light penetrates beneath the skin’s surface to warm the body directly

• Generates a deep, invigorating sweat response

• Supports circulation, relaxation, recovery, and overall wellness

• Operates at lower temperatures than traditional saunas, making longer sessions more comfortable

Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy

Regular infrared sauna use may support:

• Deep relaxation and stress reduction

• Improved circulation

• Muscle recovery and reduced soreness

• Cardiovascular wellness

• Enhanced metabolic activity

• Increased perspiration and detoxification support

• Better sleep quality

• Overall wellness and recovery

Many users notice relaxation and improved sleep within the first week, while recovery and cardiovascular benefits typically develop with consistent use over several weeks.

What to do before your session?

Hydrate Well

Drink water before, during, and after your sauna session to replace fluids lost through sweating.

Hydration tip: Weigh yourself before and after your session and replace each pound lost with approximately 16 oz of water.

Clothing Recommendations

For maximum infrared exposure:

• Wear a swimsuit, towel, or minimal clothing

• Avoid heavy clothing that traps heat

• Allow sweat to evaporate naturally

Remove Jewelry

Metal jewelry may become hot during use and can cause discomfort or burns. Remove all metal jewelry before entering.

How is an infrared sauna different from a traditional sauna?

Traditional saunas heat the air to approximately 180–200°F. Infrared saunas heat the body directly using infrared light while operating at a more comfortable 110–150°F. This allows for deeper tissue warming, efficient sweating, and longer, more comfortable sessions.

How much should I sweat?

Significant sweating is normal and expected. Sweat rates vary between individuals, but increased perspiration typically develops as your body adapts to regular sauna sessions. Always prioritize hydration before and after use.

Can I use my phone, read, or listen to music inside?

Yes. Many users enjoy audiobooks, podcasts, meditation, breathwork, or reading during their session. Keep electronic devices away from direct contact with heating elements and avoid exposing them to excessive heat.

Can I combine infrared sauna and cold plunge therapy?

Yes. Contrast therapy is one of the most effective recovery and resilience protocols available.

Example contrast protocol:

• Sauna: 10–15 minutes

• Cold Plunge: 1–3 minutes

• Rest: 5 minutes

• Repeat for 3–4 rounds based on experience and tolerance

Benefits may include enhanced circulation, improved recovery, reduced soreness, increased resilience, and mental clarity.

How long until I notice results?

Within the first week: relaxation, stress reduction, improved sleep quality.
Within 4–8 weeks: improved cardiovascular conditioning, enhanced recovery, increased resilience, body composition support, and long-term wellness benefits.

Consistency is the key to achieving lasting results.

How often should I use my infrared sauna?

• 2–3 sessions/week — general wellness

• 3–5 sessions/week — recovery and performance

• Daily — experienced users who tolerate heat well

The best schedule is one you can maintain consistently.

What should I do after my sauna session?

• Rehydrate with water and electrolytes

• Allow your body temperature to normalize gradually

• Stretch or walk lightly if desired

• Avoid cold showers immediately — allow your body to cool naturally for 5–10 minutes first

How do I maintain my infrared sauna?

• Wipe interior walls and bench with a damp cloth after each use

• Leave the door open after sessions to allow full drying

• Deep clean the interior with a mild, wood-safe cleaner monthly

• Inspect heating elements and electrical connections every 6 months

Infrared vs. Traditional Sauna

Safety Guidelines

Consult your healthcare provider before use if you:

• Are pregnant or nursing

• Have cardiovascular conditions

• Have uncontrolled blood pressure

• Have implanted medical devices such as pacemakers

• Have metal or silicone implants

• Have any significant medical concerns

Note: Most metal implants typically reflect infrared energy rather than absorb it, but physician clearance is still recommended before use.

Listen to Your Body

Exit the sauna immediately if you experience:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Nausea

• Excessive discomfort

• Signs of overheating

Recommended Sauna Protocol

Always listen to your body and gradually increase duration and temperature over time.

The Goal

Create intentional heat exposure that supports relaxation, recovery, and long-term wellness habits.

Consistency Matters

Sauna works best when it becomes part of your weekly rhythm.

A common wellness approach is:

2–4 sessions per week

with session length and temperature adjusted according to experience, tolerance, hydration, and the manufacturer's recommendations.

You don't need to stay longer simply because you can.

Think:

Heat → Hydration → Recovery → Repeat

Have more questions?  Contact our team. 

Ready to Start?

Explore our Core Heat Collection to find the right infrared sauna for your home or clinic. Or build a complete recovery system with our Core Bundles — pair your sauna with a cold plunge for the ultimate contrast therapy setup.