If you are looking for a way to relax, detox, and do some chill self-care, infrared sauna might be just what you need.
What is an infrared sauna?
An infrared sauna uses light to create heat. The light warms you but does not heat the air around you. In contrast, a traditional sauna heats the air around you which eventually heats you as well. Infrared heat is much less intense than a traditional sauna.
What are the benefits of an infrared sauna?
Only short-term studies have been done on the benefits, but they definitely show a positive outcome!
Here are a few benefits you can look forward to:
- Detox through sweating
- Pain relief
- Stress relief
- Clearer skin
- Weight loss
- Improved circulation
What are the side effects?
Infrared saunas may have side effects you should be aware of. If you are on medications or have any health issues or concerns, check with your doctor before doing a sauna session.
A few of the side effects include:
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalance – if you are missing important minerals needed for the detoxification process.
- Feeling ill – this can occur during the detoxification process.
With a nutritious diet full of minerals and proper hydration, some side effects can be prevented or diminished. Consult a doctor before your first sauna session.
My first infrared experience at Hot Box Sauna!
I woke this morning sore from a workout and in need of some serious muscle relaxation. Before the session, I went for a long walk and drank a lot of water in preparation to sweat it out at Hot Box!
Hot Box was the first choice due to price and still being at a convenient location for me. On Tuesday and Thursday mornings they have $25 dollar sessions.
When I arrived at Hot Box, my first impression of the business was fresh, hip, and welcoming. They offer apparel, face masks, lotions, and more to add to your experience. Let’s Hot Box!
The suite you are given for your sauna session has a shower with complimentary shampoo, conditioner, and soap. You may pick two colors to light your sauna and each color may provide different benefits to your mind and body, like perhaps blue for a calming environment or green for a motivating effect. The sauna is very clean and cozy which made me feel relaxed right away.
You are provided with plenty of towels for the shower or for sweat and a cold compress to keep you cool while in the sauna. You have access to the shower to refresh as you need.
It takes a while for you to really start sweating but that’s part of the benefit. The extra time allows your body to gradually heat up more naturally all while you meditate, listen to music, or catch up on your favorite shows. Inside the sauna, there is a little iPad screen for you to use and browse on your own.
I totally chilled out while listening to a Spotify playlist called Good Vibes. I started my sauna session with stretches and breathing exercises which lead to a deeply relaxing meditation to finish out my 45 minutes. The heat feels like you are laying in the sunshine on a comfortably warm day. It’s very pleasant!
Afterward, I felt a combination of being invigorated and also totally relaxed at the same time. I could have either continued on energetically tackling my to-do list, or sunk into a deep nap. Considering it was only 11:00 am, I chose to tackle my to-do list… and luckily I was invigorated enough to do so!
I really enjoyed this sauna experience and I will surely be back for more sweat sessions. I also highly recommend trying Hot Box Sauna for your first infrared experience.
Hot Box Sauna
835 S. Hill Street Los Angeles, CA 90014
213.628.3221
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/infrared-sauna/faq-20057954
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-12265/6-benefits-of-infrared-sauna-therapy.html
http://saunacloud.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-far-infrared-sauna-health-benefits/detoxification/
