Sauna FAQ's
New to the experience? Here are some answers you may find helpful.
What is an infrared sauna?
The Infrared sauna is a type of dry sauna that emits infrared waves (thermal heat) into your body to raise your core temperature. *Note that Infrared saunas feel a bit different than traditional dry or wet saunas; both heat the air around you in an effort to raise your body temperature, and wet saunas have the added feel/effect of humidity.
People often report that in the infrared sauna they don’t feel as hot as they would in a traditional wet or dry sauna, but still work up a great sweat.
What are the benefits of using a Far Infrared Sauna?
Much of the actual scientific study that has been done on sauna use has involved traditional dry or wet saunas (which operate at higher temperatures than the infrared saunas), so the benefits that we’ll draw here are all correlative. Still, there are some surprising benefits of consistent sauna use:
Weight loss and increased metabolism
Muscle pain relief
Immune system boost
Reduced joint pain and stiffness
Stress reduction
Improved appearance of skin (tone, color, elasticity)
How hot does the sauna get?
We generally keep our sauna in the range of 120 - 140 degrees Fahrenheit (48 - 60 Celsius). Note that if you ever feel too hot inside opening the door will allow some cooler air to enter the cabin.
What should i wear in the sauna?
The Infrared sauna is housed in a private room, so you’re welcome to wear as much or as little clothing as you’d like.
What do i need to bring?
We recommend that you bring a bottle of water to take into the sauna with you, but if you forget we’ll be happy to provide a glass for you. We have small and large towels, a robe to wear if necessary, a bag to hold your belongings if you happen to be doing multiple therapies and electrolyte pills to help with hydration.
When in the sauna it’s usually wise to have a small towel or two as well as a bottle of water to keep hydrated during.
You’re welcome to bring your phone and headphones in for an audio experience, however in our experience phones generally overheat within the 30 minute time frame (we get a “phone is too hot, must cool down before use” message, then just set it outside of the sauna).
Should i shower after using the sauna?
Generally, yes. Most sauna manufacturers recommend cooling down naturally after a sauna session. *NOTE: Shower use after the sauna is subject to availability (our showers are housed in our float rooms, sorry!). However, each session is 40 minutes long, 30 minutes of sauna use with a 10 minute cool down period afterward.
How often should i use the sauna, for how long?
As it goes with most all recommendations, it depends on what you’re using it for/trying achieve. Some studies suggest that specific heat therapy protocols can help increase various markers of longevity and increased cardiovascular endurance through increased blood plasma volume and hemoglobin count. 30 minutes to 1 hour (depending on the heat) is the recommended duration.
Can i pair my sauna session with another therapy at Equilibrium?
Absolutely! Pair the sauna with a float, massage, acupuncture or cryotherapy, whichever you find works best.
Here are some pairing suggestions:
We find that most people prefer to sauna before their float.
Since the addition of Chill cryotherapy members have enjoyed a hot/cold combo. Some choose to Cryo before the sauna and others prefer using the sauna before getting Chilled (it’s very important that you’re not still sweating before you step in for a Cryo session)
Try all 3: sauna, float, then Chill for a “Master Reset” of your nervous system!
Advisements & contraindications to consider before using the infrared sauna:
Severe medical conditions will require a note of authorization from your physician prior to the use of the infrared sauna.
If you’ve had any recent sprains, bruising, lacerations or surgery, the affected area(s) should not be heated for the first 48 hours after an injury OR until the swelling has reduced.
Hemophiliacs, those who don’t sweat, anyone predisposed to hemorrhage, and pregnant or lactating women should not use the Infrared Sauna.
Can I use insurance as a form of payment?
Unfortunately we do not accept insurance policies. You can always ask your insurance provider if they can reimburse you, but we do not accept insurance for payment. Some of our clients use their health savings account cards just like a credit card.
STILL CURIOUS?
Call 831-295-7312 or visit our "Contact Us" page to get in touch.