Saunas have been used for centuries to promote detoxification, relaxation, and overall wellness. Today, two of the most popular options are the traditional steam (Finnish) sauna and the modern infrared sauna. While both provide incredible health benefits, there are key differences in how they work and what they offer.
At Sanctuary Wellness, we believe in providing the most effective and therapeutic treatments for our clients, which is why we offer infrared sauna therapy. But let’s take a deeper look at both types of saunas, their benefits, and why infrared sauna sessions are the superior choice for long-term health and wellness.
Origins of the Sauna: A Look at History
Finnish (Steam) Sauna
The traditional Finnish sauna dates back over 2,000 years and is deeply rooted in Scandinavian culture. These saunas use a wood-burning stove or electric heater to heat stones, which in turn heat the air inside the sauna to temperatures of 160°F to 200°F. Water is often poured over the stones to create steam, increasing humidity levels to 10-60%.
In Finland, sauna bathing is considered a sacred practice for detoxification, social bonding, and relaxation.
Infrared Sauna
Infrared sauna therapy is a modern evolution of the traditional sauna, developed in the 20th century. Instead of heating the air, infrared saunas use infrared light waves to penetrate deep into the body’s tissues, raising core body temperature from the inside out.
Unlike steam saunas, infrared saunas operate at a lower temperature (120°F to 150°F) while providing a deeper, more efficient detoxification experience.
Benefits of a Traditional (Finnish) Steam Sauna
💧 Sweat Detoxification – Encourages heavy sweating to help remove toxins.
💧 Muscle Relaxation – The heat soothes sore muscles and improves circulation.
💧 Respiratory Benefits – The high humidity can clear nasal passages and help with respiratory issues.
💧 Immune Support – The heat temporarily raises body temperature, mimicking a fever and boosting immunity.
💧 Stress Reduction – The warm, humid environment promotes relaxation and reduces stress.
Benefits of an Infrared Sauna
🔥 Deep Detoxification – Infrared heat penetrates up to 1.5 inches deep, pulling toxins from fat cells and tissues.
🔥 Lower Temperature, Deeper Sweat – Infrared saunas operate at a comfortable 120-150°F, but induce 3-7x more sweat than traditional saunas.
🔥 Increased Circulation & Oxygenation – Infrared heat promotes better blood flow, improving oxygen delivery to tissues.
🔥 Pain & Inflammation Relief – Deep tissue heating helps reduce chronic pain, muscle soreness, and joint inflammation.
🔥 Boosted Metabolism & Fat Loss – Raises core body temperature, mimicking the effects of a light cardio workout.
🔥 Skin Health & Collagen Production – Stimulates collagen production, promoting glowing, youthful skin.
🔥 Improved Sleep & Relaxation – Helps lower cortisol levels, relax the nervous system, and promote deep sleep.
Final Thoughts
Upgrade Your Sauna Experience with Infrared Therapy
Both traditional steam saunas and infrared saunas offer unique benefits, but for deep detoxification, pain relief, and overall wellness, infrared sauna therapy is the superior choice.
At Sanctuary Wellness, our infrared sauna provides a safe, effective, and deeply relaxing experience to help you achieve optimal health.
Ready to experience the benefits of infrared sauna therapy?
Which type of sauna do you prefer? Let us know in the comments!
