The electromagnetic spectrum is divided into three segments by wavelength measured in microns:
• 0.076 to 1.5 microns is "near" infrared
• 1.5 to 5.6 microns is "middle" infrared
• 5.6 to 1000 microns is "far" infrared
This invisible band of light warms objects without warming the air between the source and the object. The best example of this is the sun. Recall standing in the sun on a cold day: you felt the warmth from the sun even though the surrounding air temperature was cold. This warmth is far infrared heat and it penetrates your body 1 1/2 - 3 1/2 inches. Approximately 80% of the sun’s rays fall into the infrared range. Infrared heat is a completely safe energy that raises the temperature in objects without having to heat the air in between. (This should not be confused with ultraviolet rays which are harmful to the skin.)
Our bodies also radiate far infrared energy through the skin at between 3 and 50 microns. Our palms emit energy between 8 and 14 microns (you can experience this by holding your palms near each other without touching). Palm healing, with a 3,000 year history in China, is based on the natural healing properties of far infrared heat. Radiant heat is efficient because it warms you, not the air.
The body absorbs as much as 93% of this heat, causing perspiration and producing a vast array of healthful benefits. The body’s tissues selectively absorb these rays as the water in the cell reacts to this heat in a process called "resonant absorption" which occurs when the frequency of the far infrared matches the frequency of the water in the cell. This causes toxins to move into the blood stream and then be excreted in sweat, feces, and urine.
Benefits of a Far Infrared Sauna
Improves Cardiovascular System.While you calmly relax in the soothing warmth of the Far Infrared Sauna in our office, your body is hard at work. And as your body increases sweat production to cool itself, your heart works harder to boost circulation, thus improving your cardiovascular system. (It also should be noted here that increased circulation has been shown to relieve acne, eczema, psoriasis, burns, lesions, and cuts. Open wounds heal faster and this reduces scarring. Peripheral blood vessels dilate to help heal muscles and soft tissue, while delivering oxygen-rich blood to oxygen-depleted muscles.)
Strengthens Immune System. When your body temperature rises, your immune system is stimulated and your body fortified.
Provides Important Detoxification.Far infrared (FIR) helps detoxify your body by removing the accumulation of potentially carcinogenic heavy metals and chemicals.
Benefits Your Skin. Profuse perspiration also deeply cleanses the skin, creating beautiful and improved tone, texture, and color. Skin cells are stimulated to reproduce—the perfect anti-aging solution!
Assists in Weight Control and in Removing Cellulite.The Far Infrared Sauna is also exceptional for burning calories, controlling weight, and removing cellulite. A single sauna session will burn as many calories as you would burn rowing a boat for 30 minutes. Weight loss occurs because body fat becomes water soluble at 100 degrees Fahrenheit and the body will remove it by sweating. Weight loss via the Far Infrared Sauna is the result of a combination of sweating and increased heart rate (like aerobic exercise).
Most patients who have attempted weight loss from dieting without success will be pleased with their results from the FIR sauna. Often the inability to lose weight is associated with chemical toxicity.
Provides Immense Relaxation.The most immediate and noticeable effect of a FIR sauna is tremendous relaxation. Relaxation alone can have a profound impact on your health. Read, listen to music, carry on a pleasant conversation with a friend or relative, or meditate in the comfortable warmth of the sauna and your stress will melt away leaving you feeling totally rejuvenated.
What is the History of the Sauna?
The sauna was invented by the early Finnish people and was introduced to the world as a significant method for healing. Ancient peoples sat in an enclosure for a period of time where the air was heated, usually by stones in a fire. This evolved through time into sand heating and steam baths. Sometimes water was dripped onto the rocks to create steam. Over the centuries, sitting in either a dry or steam sauna became known for its ability to alleviate medical problems.
Loftin Integrative Health Services, LLC, San Diego, California
