What do you wear in an infrared sauna and what should you not do after an infrared sauna session?
Navigating Infrared Sauna Etiquette: What to Wear Inside and Post-Session Precautions
Infrared saunas offer a unique and rejuvenating experience, promoting relaxation, improved circulation, and potential health benefits. However, to make the most of your infrared sauna sessions, it’s crucial to understand the etiquette and best practices surrounding what to wear during a session and what not to do afterward.
What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna
The question of what to wear in an infrared sauna is a common one, as comfort and practicality play a significant role in enhancing the sauna experience:
1. Minimal Clothing: The general rule of thumb for attire in an infrared sauna is minimal clothing. Most users opt for a swimsuit, shorts, or a bikini. The goal is to allow your skin to come into direct contact with the infrared heat for maximum benefit.
2. Clean, Dry Towel: Placing a clean, dry towel on the bench or seat of the sauna is advisable. This helps maintain hygiene by preventing direct contact with your skin’s sweat and ensures a more comfortable session.
3. Remove Jewelry and Accessories: It’s best to remove jewelry, watches, and accessories before entering the sauna. Metal can heat up quickly and become uncomfortable, and in some cases, it may even pose a burn risk.
4. Barefoot or Towel Under Feet: Saunas usually have wooden benches or floors. You can sit directly on the bench or place a clean towel under your feet to prevent slipping and maintain cleanliness.
5. Consider Personal Comfort: Ultimately, your choice of attire should prioritize personal comfort. Some users prefer to go entirely nude to maximize skin contact with the infrared heat. However, this is a matter of personal preference, and you should wear what makes you feel most at ease.
What Not to Do After an Infrared Sauna Session
After a rejuvenating session in the infrared sauna, there are specific precautions to take to ensure your safety and optimize the benefits:
1. Avoid Rapid Cooling if you have a medical condition: One of the most crucial post-session precautions is to avoid rapid cooling of the body if you have pre-existign medical conditions that may be effected further by rapid cooling. After exiting the sauna, your body is in a state of increased circulation and perspiration. Jumping into a cold shower or pool immediately can shock your system and may not be advisable for some, but can be great for healthy users. If you have an existing medical condition, perhaps take a luke warm shower to ensure any toxins released during the session are washed off your skin.
2. Stay Hydrated: Sweating during an infrared sauna session can lead to significant fluid loss. It’s essential to rehydrate promptly after your session to replenish lost fluids. Water is typically the best choice, as it helps regulate body temperature and supports detoxification.
3. Skip Heavy Meals: It’s advisable to avoid heavy meals immediately after a sauna session. The increased blood flow to your skin and extremities during the session can divert blood away from your digestive system. Opt for a light, nutritious snack if needed.
4. Limit Physical Exertion: After your sauna session, it’s best to limit strenuous physical activity for a brief period. Give your body time to recover and cool down. Engaging in vigorous exercise right away can strain your cardiovascular system.
5. Listen to Your Body: Pay close attention to how you feel after a sauna session. If you experience dizziness, lightheadedness, or any discomfort, sit or lie down immediately and drink water. These sensations can occur if you haven’t cooled down gradually or if you’ve become dehydrated.
6. Avoid Alcohol and Stimulants: After a sauna session, it’s advisable to avoid alcohol and stimulants like caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and strain your cardiovascular system.
In conclusion, understanding what to wear during an infrared sauna session and what precautions to take afterward contributes to a safe and enjoyable sauna experience. Wearing minimal clothing to maximize skin contact with the infrared heat, maintaining cleanliness with a towel, and removing metal accessories are key considerations for attire inside the sauna. After the session, prioritize gradual cooling, hydration, and listening to your body’s signals to ensure a smooth transition back to your daily routine. By adhering to these practices, you can fully enjoy the benefits of infrared sauna therapy while safeguarding your well-being.