how long should i spend in an infrared sauna?

infrared saunas offer a range of health benefits, including improved circulation, detoxification, muscle recovery, and stress reduction. however, the length of time you spend in an infrared sauna can impact these benefits. here’s a guide to help you determine how long you should stay in an infrared sauna for optimal results.

starting out

1. short sessions

   • beginner level: if you’re new to infrared saunas, start with shorter sessions. aim for 15-20 minutes to allow your body to gradually adjust to the heat.

   • observe your body's response: pay attention to how your body responds. if you feel comfortable and relaxed, you can gradually increase the duration of your sessions over time.

2. building tolerance

   • gradual increase: as your body becomes more accustomed to the infrared heat, you can start to extend your sessions. increase by 5-minute increments, working up to 30 minutes per session.

   • split sessions: you can do 15 minutes, have a cold shower and a quick cool down, then go back in for another 10-15 minutes.

   • listen to your body: always listen to your body. if you start to feel lightheaded, dizzy, or uncomfortable, end the session and exit the sauna.

optimal duration for experienced users

1. 30-45 minutes

   • experienced level: for those who are more experienced with infrared saunas, sessions lasting between 30-45 minutes are typically recommended. this duration allows you to fully experience the sauna’s health benefits without overdoing it.

   • maximising benefits: staying in the sauna for this length of time promotes deep detoxification, improved circulation, muscle relaxation, and stress relief.

2. session frequency

   • regular use: to achieve the best results, aim for regular sauna sessions. 3-4 times per week is ideal for most people, but you can adjust based on your schedule and how your body feels.

   • daily use: if your body tolerates it well, you can use the infrared sauna daily. ensure you stay well-hydrated and monitor your body’s response.

combining with other wellness practices

1. float therapy

   • enhanced relaxation: pairing infrared sauna sessions with float therapy can enhance overall relaxation and stress reduction. consider a 30 minute sauna session followed by a float session for maximum benefits.

2. sports massage

   • muscle recovery: combining a 30 minute infrared sauna session with a sports massage can significantly boost muscle recovery and alleviate soreness.

safety tips

1. stay hydrated

   • before and after: drink plenty of water before and after your sauna session to stay hydrated. at yue float, we provide water to ensure you remain hydrated.

   • during the session: consider bringing a water bottle into the sauna with you, especially for longer sessions.

2. cool down

   • gradual cooling: after your sauna session, allow your body to cool down gradually. step out of the sauna slowly and take a few minutes to sit and relax before resuming normal activities.

3. consult your doctor

   • medical conditions: if you have any medical conditions or concerns, consult your doctor before starting infrared sauna sessions to ensure it’s safe for you.

summary

the ideal duration for infrared sauna sessions varies based on your experience level and how your body responds to the heat. beginners should start with 15-20 minutes and gradually increase to 30 minutes. you can also do 15 minutes, have a cold shower and a quick cool down, then go back in for another 10-15 minutes. experienced users can aim for 30-45 minutes per session. regular sessions, combined with proper hydration and cooling down, can maximise the health benefits of infrared saunas