Switch up your sauna game to infrared

Looking to take your sauna sessions up a notch? Infrared saunas are the latest wellness trend making waves - with everyone from Lady Gaga to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson swearing by the glow. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air around you, infrared saunas use light waves to gently warm your body from within. The result? A deep, soothing sweat at a lower temperature, offering a different kind of heat experience that many find easier to enjoy and just as rewarding.

What are the benefits of infrared sauna?

Faster muscle recovery

Feeling a few aches and pains from going hard in or out of the gym? Reports suggest infrared saunas lead to deeper heat penetration, which causes blood vessels to widen so that more oxygen and nutrients can reach the muscle and help get rid of lactic acid. This results in less muscle soreness and tension, as well as faster post-workout recovery.

Ultimate sauna detox

If you want to sweat out the toxins, heavy metals and chemicals most of us have floating around our bodies, a sauna detox infrared-style is for you. That’s because infrared saunas make you perspire a whole lot more than traditional saunas. Say goodbye to the likes of lead, mercury, and cadmium, as well as BPA, which is found in everyday plastics.

Better circulation

Infrared heat improves circulation, which helps control body temperature, improve organ function, and support immune health. It’s also great for stronger bones, blood sugar management, plus a host of other positive health outcomes.

After-sauna glow

You know that glowing look you get when you’re fresh out of the sauna? It’s not your imagination; it’s the result of increased blood flow and deep sweating that leaves skin looking healthier and more vibrant. Infrared heat is exactly what you need to open pores, encourage new skin cells and boost collagen. Need we say more?

Stress relief and a good night’s sleep

Jumping in an infrared sauna is said to relax muscles, lower stress hormones, and calm the nervous system once you cool down. All of which points to a calmer mind, less anxiety, and a better night’s sleep. In fact, one study found just one sauna session improved deep sleep by up to 70%.

8 tips for infrared sauna newbies

1. Drink up with at least one glass of water before you go in, because hydration’s important.
2. Start on a low temperature (maybe 38°C) and gradually work your way up to the maximum heat temperature. You want your body to acclimatise safely and avoid overheating.
3. Don’t stay in long. Try 5 mins the first time, then 10, 15, and 20.
4. Let your body cool down. It’s tempting to head straight for a cold shower, but wait a few minutes to stabilise your body's core temperature, normalise blood circulation, and maximise the benefits of sweating.
5. Stay away if you feel ill or have a fever to avoid the risk of overheating, cardiovascular strain, or making your illness worse. We also want to protect those around us.
6. Discover the best time for a sauna (before or after working out?).
7. Find out if you should jump in the pool or spa first.
8. And of course, rise off before and after for hygienic purposes.

Ready to enjoy the many benefits of infrared saunas?

We know the perfect spot for you: Virgin Active Bondi Westfield – our all-day, luxury wellness destination where you can thrive, nourish and recover. The Infrared Sauna is waiting for you.