What is Infrared Heat?

Far-infrared radiant (FIR) heat is a completely safe form of naturally occurring energy that heats objects by a process called direct light conversion. Direct light conversion warms only the object and does not raise the temperature of the surrounding free air. This type of energy travels 2-3″ deep into the body and is thought by some to increase circulation and nourish damaged tissue.

Traditional heating systems heat the temperature of the air to a very high level within the room to warm the body. Some people have difficulty breathing in this extremely warm air. Infrared heat works differently. Instead of heating the air within the room, Infrared heats the body directly. The result is a lower power bill and deeper tissue penetration, the body perspires and receives all of the healthy benefits but avoids the extremely hot air of traditional heating systems and are safe for all ages. Another added benefit, when in a room full of yoga students is that Infrared heat creates a far more sterile environment, less likely to spread and cultivate bacteria in the humid air.

Why Is Infrared heat important to the human body? Infrared heat has the ability to penetrate, refract, radiate and reflect. The human body can absorb infrared heat because of its deep penetrating ability. When infrared heat penetrates through skin to the subcutaneous tissues, it transforms from light energy into heat energy. The thermal effect within the deep layers of the tissues causes bloods vessels and capillaries to dilate, promoting a better blood circulation, and the heat produced helps to get rid of the body’s toxins and metabolic wastes through sweating.

Health benefits of using Infrared Heat

Better Circulation and Increased Energy

Infrared heat energy that is absorbed by human cells, causing a physical phenomenon called “resonance”. Thus the cellular activities are instantly invigorated, resulting in a better blood circulation and an overall improved metabolism.

Weight Loss

Infrared heat therapy can aid in weight loss by speeding up the metabolic process of vital organs and endocrine glands resulting in substantial caloric loss in a Bikram Yoga session.

Cardiovascular Health

The Infrared heat increases heart rate and blood circulation, crucial to maintaining one’s health. The heart rate increases as more blood flow is diverted from the inner organs towards the extremities of the skin, without heightening blood pressure. This is the primary reason for Bikram’s Yoga being practiced in a hot room, it allows you a more safe and deep ability to stretch your body.

Speed Recovery from Injuries

For injuries, Infrared generated heat stimulates vasodilatation of peripheral blood vessels, bringing oxygen to joints and extremities, speeding the healing of sprains and strains, thus relieving pain and reducing the time it takes the human body to recover from an injury.

Detoxification

The quicker metabolic rate causes extra toxic waste products to be purged from the body through the skin, during perspiration. The skin is often referred to as the 3rd kidney, because it is believed to be responsible for eliminating 30% of the body’s waste.

Stress Reduction & Relaxation

Infrared heat treatment before a massage also helps prepare a client by creating an overall relaxing effect. It loosens the muscle tissue so the therapist can do a more thorough and effective massage. A perfect opportunity to book in with our in house massage therapist when you can.

Skin Beautification

For that sought after healthy glow, Infrared heat therapy allows increased blood circulation to carry great amounts of nutrients to the skin, thus promoting healthy tone and texture.

Improved Immune System

By creating an “Artificial Fever”, Infrared heat has a positive effect on the immune system. Often misunderstood, fever is a natural healing response of the body. The function of the immune system is increased naturally during a fever, while virus and bacterial growth is slowed, weakening its hold. This helps the body ward off invading organisms. A Infrared heat treatment in the early stages of a cold or flu has been known to stop the symptoms worsening.