What is Far Infrared Ray (FIR) ?

Far-infrared radiant (FIR)
heat is a completely safe form of naturally occurring energy that heats objects by direct light conversion. Direct light conversion warms only the object and does not raise the temperature of the surrounding free air. FIR heat is not ultraviolet radiation but a narrow band of energy within the 5 to 15 micron level. This type of energy travels 2-3" deep into the body to increase circulation and nourish damaged tissue. The sun is the primary source of radiant energy, but not all of this energy is beneficial. Although life needs energy from the sun, too much sunlight damages the skin. FIR heat provides many of the health benefits of natural sunlight without any of the dangerous effects of solar radiation.

Is infrared heat better than traditional steam heat?
Infrared heat has some distinct advantages over traditional steam heat saunas, however many steam sauna advocates feel that an infrared sauna does not provide the same relaxing and invigorating experience as a steam sauna. This can be an issue of personal preference.
Infrared heaters warm the body in the same manner as natural sunlight. FIR heat therapy uses the wavelength of the visible and non-visible light spectrum of sunlight that heats the body normally. Traditional steam 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 within the enclosure, FIR saunas heat the body directly. The result is a lower power bill and deeper tissue penetration. In the FIR sauna, the body perspires and receives all of the healthy benefits but avoids the harmful and extremely hot air of a traditional steam sauna. FIR saunas are safe for all ages.
Traditional saunas are more likely to spread and cultivate bacteria in the humid air, therefore a steam sauna creates a more sanitary environment. An Infrared Sauna will typically heat up in a shorter time period than a steam sauna.

Why Is FIR important to the human body?
FIR has the ability to penetrate, refract, radiate and reflect. The human body can absorb FIR because of its deep penetrating ability. When FIR penetrates through skin to the subcutaneous tissues, it transforms from light energy into heat energy. The thermal effect within the deep layers of the tissues causes bloods vessels and capillaries to dilate, promoting a better blood circulation, and the heat so produced helps to get rid of body toxins and metabolic wastes through sweating.

What are the health benefits of spending time in a sauna?
The health benefits of a FAR Infrared Sauna are numerous. Saunas are often used in the treatment of diseases and drug addictions, as well as for general therapy and well being. Some of the benefits include

Can Infrared Sauna Heaters and Saunas be used to perform Heat / Bikram Yoga?
Yes, the heat from an infrared will cause the human body to heat up and become more flexible. Infrared heaters can be used for Heat Yoga or Bikram Method Yoga.
Learn more about the ceramic sauna heater Wasauna uses in all our home saunas.

More info at:

• Infrared Sauna
• Ozone steam sauna
• Integrated Medicine Forum