the mind-body-spirit benefits of infrared saunas

To me, self-care is spiritual. It’s about connecting with our inner selves, cultivating mindful practices and honoring our worth and our well-being so that we can show up in the world as who we want to be.

Over time, my self-care routine has evolved to include practices dedicated to sleeping better, eating more healthfully and managing stress (to name a few!).

One of the self-care rituals I cherish most is using my home infrared sauna. Not only is it a sacred space for self-reflection and meditation (so easy because I can now connect my phone via the sauna’s Bluetooth and access the 300+ meditations and practices in the gabby coaching membership), but there are many incredible health benefits. 

I’ve been using a home infrared sauna for a few years now, but I recently upgraded to  Sunlighten’s mPulse Smart Sauna. It supplies near, mid and far infrared wavelengths in addition to red light therapy. Plus, it’s tricked out with technology that allows me to preprogram sessions with specific dosages and lengths of time. 

Also cool: I like to do my health homework, and Sunlighten provides tons of science-backed studies—their own and outside resources—which is super important! 

why I love infrared saunas

Unlike traditional saunas, which work at high temperatures, infrared saunas heat your body from the inside out while the air stays at a more comfortable temperature, so you can stay in the sauna longer and experience more benefits.

There is a long list of benefits you can gain from using infrared saunas, which include detoxification, relaxation, better sleep and healthier skin (for starters).

You may experience benefits beyond what I list here. In fact, research shows saunas can also help with a lot of chronic health conditions, such as fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, back pain and chronic fatigue syndrome. They’re even being explored as a cancer treatment, thanks to their impact on the immune system.

Remember, it’s important to use your infrared sauna responsibly, starting with short sessions, drinking plenty of water before and after your session, and generally paying attention to the cues your body gives you. Also, you should not use a sauna while pregnant—I took a break when I was carrying my son. 

Here is some of what I’ve experienced from using my home infrared sauna.

infrared sauna physical benefits

I finally got my sweat on!

In the past, no matter how much cardio I’d do, I barely ever broke a sweat—and I longed for it! The skin is a significant organ for detoxification, and sweating is one of our body’s fastest and most powerful ways to eliminate waste. Infrared saunas augment your body’s natural ability to detox by cranking up the internal heat. In fact, Sunlighten’s saunas are clinically proven to raise your core body temperature by up to 3 degrees. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but believe me, it’s significant. 

While you’re sweating, don’t forget to hydrate—it’s essential for your body to function properly. Right after I have a session in the sauna, I drink a glass of water with electrolytes mixed in to replenish the sodium, potassium and magnesium I may have lost.

muscle relaxation

Working out is critical for me, and strength training is essential for building lean muscle mass and bone density. When my muscles feel sore after a particularly challenging workout, the infrared sauna is my go-to recovery method. The heat helps tight muscles relax and the increased circulation and reduced inflammation helps in cell regeneration and muscle repair. Also amazing: Working out and infrared saunas both release endorphins, a.k.a. the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. We can all use more of those, right?

healthy, glowing skin

Whenever I come out of the sauna, I feel like I’ve had a facial. But beyond just dewy, flushed skin, regular infrared sauna use has actually improved my skin’s health. My complexion is clearer thanks to the boost in circulation, which brings more nutrients and oxygen to skin cells, and the cleansing effects of detoxification. Also, some research suggests that infrared saunas help stimulate collagen production, maintaining elasticity and reducing premature signs of aging. 

infrared sauna mental and spiritual benefits

a new level of Zen

My infrared sauna has become one of my all-time favorite places to meditate. I head in there three or four days a week and meditate for 40 minutes while I detox! You gotta love multitasking when it’s actually healthy for you. Some of my deepest meditations have happened in my Sunlighten sauna. Plus, the sauna has an awesome sound system, so I can listen to meditations, mantras and music.

improved mental clarity

From the first few weeks I started using the infrared sauna, I felt alive in a whole new way. I was noticeably more energized and clear-headed. I later learned those effects were due to the increase in blood circulation. Saunas are vasodilators (meaning they stimulate blood flow) and they decrease inflammation. More energy, less brain fog? Bring it on!

So those are just a few of the mind-body-spirit perks. And as time goes on, I keep noticing more!

The infrared sauna for maximum benefits

If you’re curious about how using an infrared sauna might support your health goals, there are tons of wellness businesses around the country where you can give them a try. If you want to invest in one for your home, Sunlighten is offering my community up to $600 off (go here and use the code Gabby at checkout to claim that offer). I recommend this brand big-time! The team there is super knowledgeable and helpful, so give them a shout if you have questions. 

The information contained in this blog is intended to educate, inspire and entertain you on your personal journey toward health and happiness. It is not intended to replace care best provided by qualified professionals and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

I only recommend products and brands I passionately believe in. I want you to know that when I make a recommendation, I may receive a referral fee.

I can be your spiritual coach—anytime, anywhere!

Develop a life-changing spiritual practice in just 3 minutes a day with my gabby coaching membership.