by Sarah Wight
Far-infrared is an invisible light that converts energy into a wavelength frequency (known as far- infrared rays) to penetrate the skin and heat the body internally. Wavelength frequencies stimulate vibration and movement on a cellular level. As a result, internal temperatures rise, as individuals experience heating from the inside out. It is different from a steam room or non-infrared heat therapies which use heat sources such as boiling water and hot coals to heat the body from the outside in. There are many benefits of a far-infrared therapy that support mental and physical wellbeing for people of all ages. Health, after all, isn’t just the absence of disease, but achieving optimal psychological and physical wellbeing.
WHAT CAN IT DO?
Research into far-infrared suggests it can accelerate healing (soft tissue), relax muscles, support the nervous system and enhance the body’s natural detoxification system. As with many treatments and therapies, results vary with everyone, but benefits may be most noticeable when treatments are regular.
Relaxation – parasympathetic nervous system: As a non-invasive therapeutic treatment, far-infrared saunas and bio-mat therapies are meditative in nature, which stimulates the “rest and digest” part of our nervous system (parasympathetic) to increase blood flow to our organs which support digestion and repair. This act alone can counteract the effects of modern-day stress and high cortisol levels.
Circulation: A rise in internal core temperatures will cause dilation of blood vessels and an increase in blood flow around the body. Exercise is – a major benefit for those with circulatory issues or mobility issues due to injury. It increases blood flow and can also support pain relief in certain injuries, muscle tension and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Detoxification: Our skin is our largest organ and naturally a route of detoxification. Light waves penetrate the skin and heat the body internally, which causes sweating. Still, the temperatures are much more tolerable than those of a sauna or steam room. Additionally, in a relaxed state, blood flow is being diverted to the detoxification organs. Heat stimulates activity in the cells to release toxins, as well as electrolytes. Sweat loss is a compilation of predominantly water, but also sodium and heavy metals.
WHERE TO GO IN BERMUDA?
Ocean Rock Wellness offers far-infrared bio-mat therapy sessions. Beginning at 30 minutes and progressing up to 60 minutes, each treatment is enhanced with essential oils and calming music to induce a deep state of relaxation.
COHA Complimentary Medicine offers far–infrared sauna therapy sessions. Far infrared sauna therapy is a non–invasive and safe therapy for most individuals.
If you have any concerns, consult with your physician before booking in with one of the above clinics. It’s advisable to support with adequate hydration before and after – both to replenish lost electrolytes through sweating and to support the body’s natural detoxification system.
This article was originally posted in the 2020 edition of RG Mags Health and Wellness magazine.
