The traditional sauna is electric, wood or gas fired. Preheating to 150-200 degrees is required for copious sweating. The intense heat is difficult for many to tolerate, especially when ill.



Far-infrared heats the body, the air remaining cool. Sweating begins quickly and the experience is rather pleasant. Preheating is unnecessary which saves electricity. Most use ceramic elements to generate gentle heat. Excellent, but costly, another option is to use infrared bulbs. The latter also provide warming and stimulating color therapy.

According to research, far-infrared is more cleansing than traditional saunas. The deep penetration of the infrared energy allows the cells to eliminate better.

Sauna Detoxification

Many cultures use sauna cleansing as a regular part of detoxification and cleansing. It is a powerful method of eliminating environmental chemicals that are stored in fat cells.

Instructions

1. Find a dry heat sauna that has not been treated with toxic chemicals.

2. You should not be hungry, have just eaten, or feel weak.

3. Exercise for 20 to 30 minutes. Cardiovascular exercise, such as running or using a treadmill or exercise bicycle, is necessary to stimulate the circulation of blood and lymph to the deep tissues.

4. The recommended length of time in the sauna varies according to the condition. Sittings of about 15 minutes at a time are recommended in a low temperature sauna. In advanced sauna cleanses, up to 45 minutes at a time are recommended, but it is essential that the sauna be low temperature and the person stays hydrated with water and minerals. Heavy sweating after 10 to 15 minutes is a sign that the sauna is too warm.

5. In order to increase circulation and mobilize chemicals from fat tissue, niacin supplements are sometimes recommended for 2 to 3 weeks with daily sauna therapy. A health care practitioner should be consulted to ensure the safety and efficacy of the detox. (see Sauna Detox)

Pain Management with Sauna

Pain is also at times related to ischemia due to tension or spasm which can be improved by the hyperemia that heat-induced vasodilatation produces, thus breaking the feedback loop, in which the is chemia leads to further spasm and then more pain. Heat has been shown to reduce pain sensation by direct action on both free-nerve endings in tissues and on peripheral nerves. In one dental study, repeated heat applications led finally to abolishment of the whole nerve responsible for pain arising from dental pulp.