For thousands of years, various cultures have embraced the use of hot air baths and steam, including in practices like Ayurveda. Examples can be seen in Mayan sweat houses, Mexican temescal, Russian bania, Native American sweat lodge, and more.
In the 20th century, sauna use declined since modern medicine took precedence in treating any form of illness. Over the last 2-3 decades sauna use has started to make a comeback as more people recognize it as a safe and powerful method of detoxifying the body.
Saunas of all types can help the body detoxify. They do this by improving circulation and helping relieve internal congestion.
The process of sweating is also very healing, as sweat is a one of major detoxification event by helping the body eliminate chemicals, heavy metals, and other toxins that may have built up in our body.
I want to clarify that I am talking about NEAR infrared today. There are also far infrared saunas, but near infrared is what is considered electromagnetically safer.
Protocol
As with all treatments, we need to exercise common sense when it comes to using an infrared sauna or lamp.
1. Start off slow — don’t spend more than 10-20 minutes per day in a sauna. As your body heals, you may be able to increase this time.
2. Do not take high-dose niacin or exercise before using the sauna.
3. Make sure you drink lots of water BEFORE the sauna session, as well as after.
4. Don't forget to replenish the minerals lost during sweating. I highly recommend seeking advice from a qualified practitioner when it comes to mineral replacement, particularly considering starting with Magnesium as it is commonly lost through sweat.
5. Relax after your sauna session and allow your body to readjust. Don’t hop up and get back to your daily activities. You can do sauna sessions right before bed.
6. If you are pregnant, you should avoid near infrared lamps as the infrared energy can be harmful to the developing baby.
7. Children under 5 should also avoid near infrared lamps and saunas, as their bodies do not yet sweat well and they can quickly become dehydrated and ill from the heat exposure.How to Make an Infrared Sauna Lamp
How to Make an Infrared Sauna Lamp
There are a lot of different options when it comes to infrared saunas. There are really large wooden saunas that are super expensive (but awesome). One day, I would LOVE to have one or build one myself.
There are portable infrared saunas, which are much smaller and more affordable. I have not personally tried any of the portable ones and have read mixed reviews on them, as some seem to be using far infrared, not near.
So, when space and money is an issue, you can make a small single bulb lamp. This is the most affordable option , takes up pretty much no room, and can have tremendous healing results. The bulbs emit mainly near infrared energy, with a small mount of middle infrared.
These special bulbs emit a gentle combination of red, orange, and yellow light that is invisible to the naked eye, helping to promote energy flow throughout the body and support the functions of the digestive and elimination systems. I primarily focus my infrared therapy sessions on my abdomen, sides, and back, but I have recently started incorporating targeted treatments for my thyroid as well.