Far infrared (FIR) radiation, sometimes referred to as thermal radiation, has the ability to penetrate the skin and underlying tissues up to 1.5 inches from the surface of the skin. When FIR radiation penetrates human cells, it generates heat, but it also changes the molecular vibrations. In other words, the waves of FIR cause new vibrations at the cellular level. These new “vibes” are beneficial to your health. Here’s a deeper dive into what happens when FIR radiation penetrates human cells to create heat and modify molecular vibration:
Heat Generation: Far infrared radiation is associated with the generation of heat within the body. This heat can penetrate tissues, leading to an increase in tissue temperature. It’s important to remember that infrared saunas heat the body from within as opposed to traditional saunas that heat the air to warm the body from the outside requiring very high temperatures reaching the 200ºF mark. The lower temperatures required in an infrared sauna provides for a better overall sauna experience and is much better for the skin. The increase in body temperature can have several effects, including:
Molecular Vibrations: FIR radiation interacts with water molecules and other molecules in cells, causing changes in molecular vibrations. Water, in particular, exhibits strong absorption and re-emission of FIR radiation, which can lead to energy transfer and changes in molecular motion. This vibrational phenomenon is thought to be relevant to the therapeutic effects of FIR radiation. The therapeutic effects include, but are not limited to the following:
Enhanced blood flow: FIR radiation can cause blood vessels to dilate and open wider, which in turn promotes better circulation. Improved blood flow can have therapeutic benefits, including pain relief and enhanced healing.
Muscle relaxation: FIR radiation and the heat generated from the molecular vibration it induces (1) can help relax muscles, making it a useful modality for workout recovery, pain management and physical therapy.
Detoxification: FIR radiation can help with the removal of toxins from the body through increased sweating. Studies have shown that infrared generated sweating can be 7X more effective for detox than sweat from traditional saunas. (2)
Cellular Responses: The heat generated by FIR radiation can influence cellular processes. Elevated temperature can have positive effects on enzyme activity, protein function, and cell metabolism.
Pain Relief and Healing: FIR radiation is sometimes used in therapies like far infrared saunas or heat lamps for various purposes, including pain management, relaxation, and the promotion of healing. These applications rely on the heat-generating properties of FIR radiation and its potential to stimulate circulation and ease muscle tension.
It's important to note that FIR radiation is not ionizing radiation, and it will not alter DNA like higher-energy radiation types, such as UVC, X-rays or gamma rays.
Weight Loss and Calorie Burning: Infrared saunas can raise heart rate and body temperature, leading to calorie burning. Just imagine the results when an infrared sauna is combined with an appropriately choreographed exercise routine. The combination of exercise with infrared molecular vibration and heat can greatly accelerate the metabolism and calorie burn! This is the basis for the HOTWORX 3D Training Method.
Skin Health: Many people report improved skin appearance and texture following regular infrared sauna use. The sweating induced by saunas can help unclog pores, cleanse the skin, and promote a healthy complexion. The lower temperatures required by IR saunas are easier on the skin as opposed to the extreme heat required from a traditional sauna session.
Stress Reduction: Infrared sauna sessions can help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being. The relaxation induced by the infrared can be beneficial for mental and emotional health.
Improved Sleep: Some individuals find that regular use of infrared saunas helps improve sleep quality. The relaxation and stress reduction it provides can lead to better sleep.
Maybe it’s time to combine your infrared sauna session with a workout session. Think about it. You have always known the benefits in strength gains and general health from working out… and now you know the benefits of infrared with the heat and molecular vibration.
Why not combine the two, save time and take your fitness to a whole new level.
👊🔥
(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5505738/
(2) https://www.drnorthrup.com/infrared-sauna-sweat-toxins/
