Yes! There you go. A one word answer. But if you are reading this article, you want to know a little bit more detail about the health benefits of infra-red saunas. And there are quite a few.

What is an infra-red sauna, and how does it differ from a traditional sauna?

Heat has been used for relaxation and healing for thousands of years, from the Native American sweat lodges to the Russian bania and Finnish sauna, powered by hot coals.

Infra-red saunas use light, which in the infra-red part of its spectrum causes the human body to heat up and sweat.

Unlike “traditional saunas”, the infra-red light directly penetrates the skin without creating large amounts of heat -- the body temperature grows fast, but the room does not get very hot.

It is also worth noting that infrared saunas work at lower temperatures than a regular sauna might and can be easier to use for people who cannot tolerate high heat.

How does an infra-red sauna work?

Usually as little as 15–20 minutes of treatment is enough. The light works at the cellular level, altering metabolism and can contribute to healing processes.

Some of the body reactions to infra-red radiation include:

• sweating
• increase in the heart rate
• relaxation activated by the parasympathetic nervous system
• “clearing of mind” similar to that invoked by exercise

Are there any confirmed positive health effects?

In addition to relaxation and general feeling of well-being that typically follows the use of an infra-red sauna, there are many testimonials that reflect the benefits users of infra-red saunas experience, ranging from anti-aging effects, pain reduction, support for joints and muscles, healthy heart, to handling stress, insomnia, depression and autoimmune disorders.

Supporters of infra-red saunas believe that the greatest positive effect these devices have is their anti-inflammatory effect achieved at cellular level. Scientific research into infra-red saunas focuses on pain reduction, cardiovascular health and joints and muscles health.

We are very happy to report that in addition to numerous personal testimonials from individual users, there is also research confirmation of health benefits. A number of studies published in various peer-reviewed journals found evidence for measurable, significant positive effects of FIR (far infra-red) saunas in:

• normalizing blood pressure,
• treating congestive heart failure,
• treating arrhythmias,
• improving heart function in people at risk of heart disease,
• treating chronic pain, including pain from rheumatoid arthritis,
• chronic fatigue,
• improving quality of life for people with type-2 diabetes.

Is this safe?

Yes. Some people report feeling slightly light-headed and rest is generally recommended after the treatment. For the vast majority of users infra-red sauna treatments are completely safe.

No serious negative effects have been reported and as a treatment, infra-red saunas are well tolerated even by people who can’t use other kinds of sauna or heat treatment. The infra-red light is invisible, so it doesn’t damage the eyes, and the heat is gentle, not likely to cause burns.

To be on the safe side, if you have any doubts, or a history of heart problems or take regular medication, do consult your doctor before using an infra-red sauna.