Want to know more about Infrared Therapy? We answer your questions below.
Q. Is it safe?
A. Far Infrared (FIR) heat is part of the sun's invisible spectrum - it is safe and healing for all living things. One of FIR's best characteristics is the ability to deeply penetrate into joints, muscles and tissues, providing lasting relaxation and many health benefits.
Q. How is it different to a traditional sauna?
A. Traditional saunas raise the temperature of the air to a very high level within the chamber to warm the body. Some people have difficulty breathing in this extremely warm air.
FIR saunas work differently. Instead of heating the air, Far Infrared saunas heat the body directly, achieving much deeper tissue penetration. In the FIR sauna, the body still perspires and receives all of the healthy benefits of a traditional steam sauna, but avoids the harmful and extreme hot air.
Q. Is it similar to a UV solarium?
A. Absolutely not! The infrared heater produces radiant energy, which is the same as the heat from the sun, only without the harmful ultraviolet rays. You definitely won’t be getting a tan during your FIR sauna session!
Q. Is it sanitary?
A. We maintain impeccable standards of hygiene at Sunshine Colonics Health & Wellness Centre. The sauna is thoroughly cleaned after each use and returned to ‘as new’ condition. Traditional saunas are more likely to spread and cultivate bacteria in the humid air, therefore an infrared sauna creates a more sanitary environment.
Q. I find traditional saunas too hot and have difficultly breathing in the steam. Will I have the same problem in Far Infrared Saunas?
A. Traditional steam saunas usually operate at an average temperature between 90 and 105 degrees. This extreme temperature is required to generate sufficient steam. The average temperature in a Far Infrared sauna ranges from about 40 to 60 degrees, and you can remain in complete control over the temperature to maintain your comfort. An infrared sauna essentially warms the body in the same manner as natural sunlight, without the harmful UV radiation and with many added health benefits.
For people who find the air in the sauna intolerable, this is a huge benefit. Far Infrared Saunas are much safer, with no hot surfaces or extremely high temperatures.
Q. Do I need to consult a doctor before my sauna?
A. Those with chronic conditions, especially multiple sclerosis, hyperthyroidism, hypertension or serious heart conditions, should consult a doctor before use.
