Now that you have learned about how to choose the best-infrared sauna blanket and its benefits. Let’s move on to the most important part: How to use an infrared sauna blanket.
Unlike traditional sauna, which requires a lot of space, sauna blankets can be used anywhere. This means that you can get the same health benefits as a regular sauna, such as relaxation, detoxification, weight loss, etc without having to go to the spa. However, this also means that you need to follow some different steps and precautions when using the blanket.
Set Up Your Infrared Sauna Blanket
Before you start your sauna session, you need to set up your infrared sauna blanket on a flat and comfortable surface. It can be your couch, bed, or floor, as long as you have enough space to lie down. Then, connect the power cord and plug it in.
On the instruction of most sauna blankets, you will see that it requires wearing clothes instead of using just a towel like a normal sauna. This is because infrared rays can cause burns on your skin at higher heat settings. Therefore, you should wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and socks to cover your whole body. If your blanket has armholes, you can also bring a book or your smartphone to keep yourself entertained during the session.
Wearing moisture-wicking clothes like long gym clothes would be a good idea. Since these clothes will help absorb the sweat that you produce during the session and make you feel more comfortable.
Enjoy A Relaxing Sauna Session
To use your infrared sauna blanket, you need to adjust the controller to your desired heat level. There are usually 7-9 heat settings to choose from, depending on the model. If you are new to this, I suggest starting with the lowest setting and gradually increasing it as you get used to the heat.
It will take some time for the blanket to warm up, usually between 5-10 minutes. You can use this time to relax and prepare yourself for the sauna session. The optimal duration for a session is 30-45 minutes, as this will give you the full benefits of the infrared rays. You should not stay in the blanket for more than 60 minutes, as this can cause overheating and negative health effects, such as nausea and dehydration.
The first time I used an infrared sauna blanket, I felt a bit strange wearing long clothes in a sauna. As I mentioned in my MiHigh review, I was completely soaked after 45 minutes and it was quite an uncomfortable experience. But after a few sessions, I got used to it and found it very relaxing. You will probably feel the same way once you try it yourself.
Clean And Store Your Infrared Sauna Blanket
When you finish your sauna session, you need to wait for the blanket to cool down before you clean and store it. The blanket will still be hot after you use it, so be careful not to touch it with your bare hands.
A good way to spend this time is to take a cold shower to rinse off the sweat and toxins that you have released from your body. This will also help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated after the sauna. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water to rehydrate yourself and prevent dehydration.
To clean the blanket, you can use a towel to wipe off the moisture and dirt that have accumulated inside it. Make sure to dry it thoroughly before you fold it and put it back in the carry case. The carry case is usually big enough to fit the blanket easily, so you don’t have to worry about folding it perfectly.
How To Know If You Are Using Your Infrared Sauna Blanket Effectively?
Signs Of A Successful Sauna Session
By following the steps that I have shared with you, you will be able to experience the amazing benefits of using an infrared sauna blanket. Most of the time, you will feel relaxed and pain-free after your session. If you use the blanket regularly, you will also notice other positive changes in your health and well-being, such as:
- Detoxification: The infrared rays from the blanket will heat up your body from the inside and help you sweat out the toxins that have accumulated in your system.
- Improved blood circulation: As your body temperature rises, your heart rate will increase and your blood vessels will dilate. This will improve the flow of oxygen and nutrients to your cells and organs, similar to what happens when you exercise.
- Pain relief: The heat from the blanket will stimulate the production of endorphins, which are natural painkillers that reduce inflammation and discomfort.
- Faster muscle recovery: If you use the blanket after your workouts, you will be able to recover faster from muscle fatigue and soreness. The heat will also help repair any tissue damage and prevent injuries.
- Better sleep quality: The blanket will help you relax and lower your stress levels by balancing the amount of cortisol, which is a hormone that is released when you are under pressure, in your blood.
- Enhanced skin appearance: The deep sweating caused by the blanket will cleanse your skin of bacteria and dead skin cells, while also boosting the production of collagen, which is a protein that gives your skin elasticity and firmness.
Evaluating The Results And Benefits
The results of using an infrared sauna blanket may vary from person to person. Some people may see the benefits after a few weeks, while others may take longer. I suggest that you keep track of your overall wellness to evaluate your progress. You can do this by using a notebook, taking pictures, or writing a journal to document how you feel and look after using the device. This can help you decide whether you want to continue this method or not.
Final Thought
Using an infrared sauna blanket can have similar health benefits as a traditional sauna if you use it correctly and moderately. However, these benefits are not guaranteed for everyone, as there is not enough scientific evidence to support all the claims. A sauna alone cannot cure all your pains and stress. You need to balance it with other healthy habits, such as exercising and visiting your doctor. If you do that, you will likely see positive changes in your life.
