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1. How do I reap the fullest benefits of using my infrared
sauna?
Remove
your clothes - the infrared sauna will not work through clothing.
Results are maximized when your sauna use is part of an overall exercise
program, good nutrition and adequate rest. Make sure bowels are
moving regularly, as sauna therapy mobilizes toxic chemicals and metals
that your body needs to eliminate. Men please position yourselves so
that testicles are not directly exposed to the infrared energy source.
Talking or working are not recommended in the sauna as this is an
opportunity to quiet the mind, relax deeply, and/or meditate.
Take a
warm (not cold or hot) shower after you rest to remove the toxic
substances from your skin and to prevent their re-absorption. It is best
to use not soap as your skin will be very clean... and most soaps
(including shampoos and conditioners - unless they are organic) contain
chemicals, and a film that may clog the opened pores.
2. How long should I stay in the sauna?
Start
with a 30 minute session and work your way gradually to 45 -50 minutes.
Do not exceed the temperature of 130 degrees for a far infrared sauna.
(As with anything, in the rare event that you begin to not feel well for
any reason, just leave the sauna.) Lie down for at least 10-15 minutes
after your sauna to allow for gradual cooling.
3. How frequently can I use my sauna?
Daily if
you are healthy. Weekly if you are debilitated. If you have health
concerns be sure to check with your doctor first.
4. What should I do about loss of minerals and
metabolites due to excessive sweating in the sauna?
Hydration is a requirement! Be sure to drink at least one glass of
mineralized water before AND after your sauna to replace the minerals
lost through sweating. Options include sea salt and kelp granules,
or the product Emergen-C, which contains a variety if vitamins
and minerals.
5. Is the sauna safe for children?
The core body temperature of children rises
much faster than adults. This occurs due to a higher metabolic
rate per body mass, limited circulatory adaptation to increased
cardiac demands, and the inability to regulate body temperature by
sweating. Consult with a child's pediatrician before using a
sauna.
6. Is the sauna safe for the elderly?
The ability to maintain core
body temperature decreases with age. This is primarily due to
circulatory conditions and decreased sweat gland function. The
body must be able to activate its natural cooling processes in
order to maintain core body temperature. Seek advice of your
doctor.
7. Is there anyone who should NOT use an infrared sauna?
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Vigorous
heating is strictly contraindicated in cases of enclosed infections,
whether they are in joints, dental areas, or other tissues.
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Individuals using prescription drugs should consult their doctor and/or
pharmacist for possible interactions with exposure to infrared waves and
elevated sauna temperature.
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Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, central nervous system tumors
and diabetes with neuropathy are conditions that can be associated with
impaired sweating.
-
A
recent, acute joint injury should not be heated for the first 48 hours,
or until the swelling subsides.
-
Consult
with your doctor if you have metal pins, rods, artificial joints, or any
other surgical implants (though such implants are generally not heated
by infrared waves).
8. What if I have a fever?
An individual that has a fever should not use
a sauna while his or her fever is active.
9. What if I am menstruating?
Heating of the lower back area
of women during the menstrual period may temporarily increase
their menstrual flow. Some women endure this process to gain
relief of pain commonly associated with their cycle, whereas
others simply choose to avoid sauna use during that time of the
month. It is a matter of personal choice.
10. What if I am pregnant?
Pregnant women should consult a physician
before using a sauna because fetal damage can occur with a certain
elevated body temperature.
11.
Should I use the sauna to "sweat out" a
hangover?
Contrary to popular belief, it is not
advisable to attempt to "sweat out" a hangover. Alcohol
intoxication decreases a person's judgment. Therefore this person
may not realize it when the body has a negative reaction to high
heat. Alcohol already increases the heart rate, which may
be further increased by heat stress, creating an unintended heart
rate level.
12. What are the general safety issues I need to be
aware of?
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Hydration and replacement of the fluids and minerals lost through
sweating is necessary for safe and healthy use of your sauna.
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Use your
sauna under medical supervision if you have a chronic condition, or if
you have ANY health concerns regarding use of the infrared sauna.
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Do not
"sweat out" a hangover.
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Remain
in the sauna no more than one hour at a time, and do not overstay your
own personal comfort zone.
13. What about increased electrical usage costs for
the sauna?
The infrared sauna uses minimal hydro/electricity
14. What about using the
sauna if I am on MEDICATIONS?
Individuals who are using prescription drugs
should seek the advice of their personal physician or a
pharmacist for possible changes in the drugs' effects when the
body is exposed to far infrared waves or elevated body temperature.
Diuretics, barbiturates, and beta-blockers may impair the body's
natural heat loss mechanisms. Some over-the-counter drugs such as
antihistamines may also cause the body to be more prone to heat
stroke.
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