Hi, folks. Welcome to Sauna Squad. Today we’re going to explore what to expect after an infrared sauna session. We’re huge proponents of infrared sauna use around here and we have been for years, but recently it’s grown significantly more popular.
Infrared saunas have garnered attention from health enthusiasts and celebrities who swear by their benefits. After incorporating infrared sauna sessions into their lifestyle, their experiences shed light on what one might expect.
Lady Gaga shared on Instagram, “Everyone’s body and condition is different. You should consult with your doctor, but what the heck, here we go! When my body goes into a spasm, I find an infrared sauna really helps. I’ve invested in one”.
Jennifer Aniston praised the infrared sauna in Forbes, saying, “I just like to mix things up, and also I love an infrared sauna; it allows for such beautiful, glowing skin and cell rejuvenation and detoxification. It even helps with weight loss and relaxation”.
Kendall Jenner expressed her enthusiasm for LED light therapy and infrared saunas in Teen Vogue, stating, “It’s such cool technology with different light settings that benefit the skin internally. I’m putting it in my backyard and am super excited to have it at my house”.
Sadie Newman also noted the benefits for her skin in Teen Vogue, “I do the sauna a lot, which helps my skin, like an infrared sauna.”
It’s pretty clear based on some of Hollywood big stars weighing in that the health and wellness benefits of infrared saunas have entered the zeitgeist. But what can you expect after an infrared sauna session?
Let’s dive in, shall we?
Positive Outcomes: Benefits of Infrared Sauna Sessions
Infrared saunas are not just about sweating; they offer a spectrum of benefits that touch various aspects of well-being. These sessions combine dry heat and infrared lights to provide a holistic wellness experience.
Supporting Mental Clarity and Relaxation
Think of the sauna as your personal chill zone. The heat helps your muscles relax. This helps you feel less anxious and more at peace. Many people say they sleep better after a sauna session. It makes sense because you tend to sleep better and less stressed. Plus, the quiet space gives your mind a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Enhancing Your Physical Condition
When you’re in the sauna, your body gets warm, really warm. This warmth does a lot of good things. Your skin gets better because the heat improves blood flow. Sweating helps get rid of toxins from your body. Your body recovers faster after workouts, your pains might lessen, your blood pressure might go down, and your body can heal faster from injuries.
Nurturing Your Spiritual Side
This time alone can be used for meditating or just thinking about things. Some saunas have different colored lights. These lights can make the quiet time even more special, helping you feel more balanced and at peace.
Boosting Emotional Health
Your emotions can become more stable when you’re less stressed and more relaxed. After a sauna session, many people feel refreshed and ready to take on the world. This can be helpful if you’ve been feeling stressed or down.
Caution and Awareness: Understanding the Cons
Infrared saunas are popular for their health perks, but knowing about possible infrared sauna side effects is essential. Being informed helps you enjoy your sauna safely. Let’s explore some common cons and how you can prepare for them.
1. Feeling Tired After the Sauna
- What happens: The relaxing warmth of the sauna can make you feel sleepy or drained, as your body works hard in the heat.
- How to prepare: Allow yourself some quiet time to rest and regain energy after your session. This downtime helps your body recover and restores your energy levels.
2. Dizziness During or After Sauna Use
- What happens: The heat can lower your blood pressure, causing light-headedness or dizziness, especially when you stand up quickly.
- How to prepare: If you feel dizzy, sit down gently or step out of the sauna slowly. It’s important to make any movements cautiously and to take your time.
3. Feeling Nauseous
- What happens: The intense heat can occasionally upset your stomach, leading to feelings of nausea.
- How to prepare: Avoid eating heavy meals right before your sauna session. And remember, staying well-hydrated can also help alleviate feelings of nausea.
4. Experiencing Headaches
- What happens: Headaches can occur due to dehydration from sweating, or from the heat itself, which can cause your blood vessels to expand.
- How to prepare: Keep yourself well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your session. This not only helps prevent headaches but also enhances the detoxifying effect of the sauna.
5. Skin Irritation or Itchiness
- What happens: Prolonged exposure to sweat and heat can lead to skin irritation or itchiness, especially if your skin is sensitive.
- How to prepare: Rinse off in a lukewarm shower after your session. This removes sweat and toxins from your skin and helps close your pores, keeping your skin fresh and clear.
6. Getting Dehydrated
- What happens: Excessive sweating without proper hydration can lead to dehydration, making you feel weak or fatigued.
- How to prepare: Consistently drink water throughout your sauna session. Having a water bottle handy ensures you can replenish fluids lost through sweating.
7. Overheating Your Body
- What happens: Staying in the sauna too long can raise your core temperature excessively, leading to overheating.
- How to prepare: Limit your sauna sessions to a safe duration, particularly if you’re a beginner. Gradually increase the time as your body becomes accustomed to the heat.
8. Changes in Heart Rate
- What happens: The heat can cause your heart rate to rise as your body tries to cool itself, which might concern those with cardiovascular conditions.
- How to prepare: Consult with your doctor before using a sauna, especially if you have a heart condition or cardiovascular disease. They can provide guidance tailored to your health needs.
9. Blood Pressure Fluctuations
- What happens: The heat can cause temporary changes in your blood pressure, which can be significant for those monitoring their blood pressure for health reasons.
- How to prepare: If you’re keeping an eye on your blood pressure, stay vigilant about monitoring it around your sauna sessions. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice to ensure your sessions are safe and beneficial.
10. Muscle Pain or Discomfort
- What happens: If you have existing muscle injuries or chronic pain, the sauna’s heat might intensify the discomfort temporarily.
- How to prepare: If you have recent injuries or ongoing muscle pain, consult with a healthcare professional before using the sauna. They can advise on how to use the sauna in a therapeutic, not harmful way.
For more insightful tips about worse scenarios that you might encounter after an infrared sauna read this article: Why Do I Feel Worse After Infrared Sauna? 32 Possible Reasons
If you have health concerns or experience significant discomfort during or after your infrared sauna sessions, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They can offer guidance that’s specifically tailored to your health needs.
After enjoying the soothing warmth of an infrared sauna, understanding the appropriate steps to maximize benefits and ensure safety is essential. This guide outlines the best practices to adopt and actions to avoid post-sauna to optimize your session while prioritizing your well-being.
Best Practices After Your Sauna Session:
- Stay Hydrated: Replenishing the fluids lost during your sweat session is crucial. Drink plenty of water or electrolyte-rich drinks to aid recovery and prevent dehydration.
- Rest and Recuperate: Give your body time to transition back to its regular state gently. Resting, whether sitting or lying down, helps stabilize your energy levels.
- Gentle Cleansing: A warm or cool shower after the sauna is beneficial. It cleanses your skin, gently cools your body, and refreshes you.
- Mindful Eating: Opt for light snacks if you’re hungry. Heavy meals might overburden your digestive system immediately after a sauna, so keeping it light is advisable.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your feelings. If you feel great, that’s excellent! If you’re dizzy or feel unusual, slow down and give your body the rest it deserves.
Actions to Avoid After Your Infrared Sauna Session:
- Avoid Intense Activities: Allow your body some time to recover. Engaging in heavy exercise or strenuous work can be overwhelming after a sauna.
- Steer Clear of Alcohol and Caffeine: These substances can disrupt your body’s hydration and energy balance. It’s best to avoid them right after your session.
- Be Responsive to Your Body’s Signals: Avoid discomfort or unusual signs. These are your body’s way of communicating. Consult a doctor if something feels off, especially if you have specific health conditions.
- Approach Cold Plunges with Caution: If you’re new to saunas, your body might find rapid temperature changes intense. Start with mild temperature transitions and observe how your body reacts.
- Choose Comfortable Clothing: After the sauna, your skin needs to breathe. Select loose, comfortable clothes that don’t irritate your skin or restrict airflow.
Immediate Steps and When to Seek Help for Infrared Sauna Side Effects
Proper care after a sauna session involves being prepared for potential side effects. Here’s how to address them promptly and recognize when professional help is needed.
Immediate Steps for Post-Sauna Side Effects
- Find a Safe Haven: If you feel unwell, find a quiet and comfortable place to assess your body’s reactions calmly.
- Hydration is Key: Combat any signs of dehydration by drinking water or electrolyte-rich drinks.
- Cooling Measures: If you’re feeling overheated, a cool cloth on your forehead or a lukewarm shower can help reduce your body temperature.
- Restorative Rest: Rest is a simple yet effective way to address feelings of dizziness, fatigue, or mild headaches.
Seeking Professional Help
- Symptom Surveillance: Monitor how you feel closely. Persistent or worsening symptoms like nausea, dizziness, or headaches cause concern and warrant professional attention.
- Professional Consultation: Seek immediate medical help if you experience severe symptoms such as extreme dehydration, breathing difficulties, or intense chest pain.
- Regular Health Check-Ups: Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider are recommended if sauna sessions are part of your routine but often leave you unwell. They can provide insights into your body’s responses and guide you on safe sauna practices tailored to your health profile.
Balancing the Benefits and Risks: Making Informed Decisions
Remember, the essence of a fulfilling sauna experience lies in balancing its many benefits with mindfulness about the risks. Feeling tired, experiencing dizziness, or dealing with skin irritation are some side effects to be aware of.
By preparing properly — staying hydrated, taking it slow, and listening to your body — you can make the most of your sauna sessions.
Conclusion & Actionable Takeaways:
- Enjoy Responsibly: Always hydrate well, rest if you feel tired, and cool down after each session.
- Personalize Your Sauna Experience: Remember that everyone’s body reacts differently. Adjust your sauna sessions to what feels right for you.
- Seek Expert Advice: Particularly for those with specific health conditions, consulting with healthcare professionals ensures your sauna experience is tailored to your needs, maximizing benefits while minimizing risks.
As you dive into the amazing experiences of infrared saunas, we have loads more for you to discover at Sauna Squad! And hey, we’re not just about dishing out info – we’re all about sharing and caring.
We hope you’ve learned a thing or two from this article. Thanks for joining the Squad. Until next time, stay warm my friends!
Disclaimer: We are merely sauna enthusiasts. We are NOT medical professionals. It is highly recommended you speak with a healthcare professional before allowing your child in the sauna with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get the best results from an infrared sauna?
For the best results, drink plenty of water before your session. Start with short sauna times and slowly increase them. After the sauna, relax a bit and drink more water. Remember, using the sauna regularly is key to seeing benefits.
Is it okay to wear clothes in an infrared sauna?
Yes, it’s okay but keep it light. Wear loose, breathable clothes or just a towel. This lets your skin breathe and sweat out toxins. Avoid heavy clothes that can stop you from sweating properly.
Should I wipe off sweat in an infrared sauna?
It’s up to you, but it’s usually best to let sweat evaporate naturally. Sweating cools you down and helps remove toxins. If you’re feeling sweaty, it’s okay to dab the sweat gently with a towel.
However, you SHOULD wipe the sweat off the wood in your infrared sauna. It will stain the wood otherwise!
Is it normal to poop after an infrared sauna?
Yes, it’s normal. The sauna’s heat relaxes your whole body, including your digestive system. This can lead to a bowel movement, part of your body’s eliminating waste. Talking to a doctor might be good if you notice big changes or discomfort.
A message from Sauna Squad
We hope we’ve provided some value in your research. But if you have any questions or concerns, hit us up on Instagram @thesaunasquad or feel free to fire us a message on our contact page.