Dr. Mercola interviews Brian Richards, founder of SaunaSpace, who discusses the differences between traditional Finnish saunas, conventional infrared saunas, and near-infrared saunas. They explore the benefits of sauna therapy, optimizing health with regular sauna use and light therapy, the significance of light therapy and structured water, and the advantages of near-infrared saunas. They also cover testing, sauna bulbs, infrared exposure, different bulb systems and temperature range, supplements and precautions for sauna use, and the benefits of incorporating near-infrared sauna therapy into personal workspaces.
Near-infrared saunas use incandescent bulbs to heat the body, providing a more efficient and accessible sauna experience.
Sauna therapy can improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and enhance mental well-being when tailored to individual needs.
Near-infrared sauna therapy offers benefits such as increased circulation, toxin elimination, and stimulation of heat shock proteins.
Deep dives
Sauna as a Powerful Biohack for Health
Sauna is considered an essential biohack for optimal health. It offers significant benefits beyond detoxification, including boosting mitochondrial function and acting as a substitute for insufficient sun exposure. The Sauna Space founder provides high-quality resources for creating the best sauna experience, using a combination of infrared and near-infrared light. The sauna experience stimulates the production of heat shock proteins, promotes detoxification, and induces a sweating response that elevates core body temperature. Using an incandescent bulb-based sauna, users can achieve the benefits of both heat therapy and photobiomodulation.
Differentiating Near-Infrared and Traditional Saunas
Near-infrared saunas, like Sauna Space, use radiant heat from incandescent bulbs to effectively heat the body, allowing for deeper penetration and a stronger sweating response. They do not rely solely on hot air like traditional saunas, making them a more efficient and accessible option. The heat from near-infrared sauna therapy is absorbed by the body, elevating core body temperature and inducing a sweat response. This method, combined with the precise balance of near-infrared and mid-infrared wavelengths, offers a unique and effective sauna experience.
Personalized Sauna Sessions and Benefits
The length and intensity of sauna sessions should be tailored to individual needs and health conditions. Monitoring weight loss and core body temperature can help gauge the effectiveness of each session. Building up gradually, individuals can experience the benefits of sauna therapy, including improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and enhanced mental well-being. Near-infrared saunas provide a gentle and accessible way to engage in sauna therapy, allowing individuals to sweat and elevate core body temperature at their own pace.
Comparing Sauna Types and Temperature
Different sauna types, such as the far-infrared sauna and the incandescent bulb-based sauna, offer varying heat exposure and temperature ranges. Far-infrared saunas tend to operate at lower temperatures around 140 degrees Fahrenheit, while incandescent bulb-based saunas can reach higher temperatures over 160 degrees Fahrenheit. The key to an effective sauna experience is not solely based on temperature, but on achieving a noticeable sweat response and elevating core body temperature by approximately three degrees. By customizing sauna sessions, individuals can experience the benefits of sweating, improved detoxification, and cellular repair.
Benefits of Near Infrared Sauna Therapy
Near infrared sauna therapy offers numerous benefits, including increased circulation, elimination of toxins, and stimulation of heat shock proteins. The therapy involves using near infrared light to heat the body, which leads to sweating and detoxification. By activating the skin as an elimination organ, near infrared sauna therapy helps remove toxins from the body. Additionally, the therapy promotes circulation, which enhances nutrient delivery and waste removal. The stimulation of heat shock proteins also contributes to cellular repair and overall health.
Safe and Affordable Implementation of Near Infrared Sauna Therapy
Implementing near infrared sauna therapy can be done in a safe and affordable manner. Upgrading an existing far infrared sauna with near infrared bulbs is a cost-effective option that allows individuals to experience the benefits of near infrared heat. It is also possible to create a sauna space in small enclosures like closets or showers by using near infrared panels that can be secured on walls. The therapy can be personalized based on individual preferences and health conditions. Additionally, taking precautions, such as protecting the head from excessive heat and replenishing electrolytes, ensures a safe and beneficial experience with near infrared sauna therapy.
In this best of series interview Dr. Mercola speaks with repeat guest Brian Richards, founder of SaunaSpace, who will focus on the differences between traditional Finnish saunas, conventional infrared saunas and near-infrared saunas, and why near-infrared exposure is so important.
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