LEISURE - get a home sauna and just relax

Saunas have long enjoyed a reputation for being a simple and effective way of relaxing the body while ridding it of all those nasty toxins.

And while saunas may conjure up images of pouring water over hot coals, they have evolved into far more advanced pieces of equipment over the past few years.

The health benefits of infrared saunas – the latest sauna craze to sweep the world – are numerous, far out numbering those of the traditional variety.

Studies in Japan and Canada have shown the benefits of the saunas for people with illnesses varying from skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, through varying heart problems to asthma and bronchitis.

Research also shows that the far infrared saunas emit rays with a wavelength between 5.6um and 15um, which are the most beneficial. In particular, they have positive affects on the growth and health of the human body.

Using a far infrared sauna also:

Enhances circulation.

Accelerates metabolism (at least 600 calories burned in 30 minutes).

Boosts the immune system.

Enhances detoxification processes.

Reduces pain.

Promotes deep cleansing of skin pores.

Induces muscle relaxation.

Accelerates breakdown of cellulite/fat.

Improves skin nourishment/skin conditions.

Accelerates healing from wounds, injuries and surgeries, and thus reduces scarring.

Reduces physiological and mental/emotional stress.

Warms muscles (maximises muscle performance and minimises exercise-related injury).

Enhances nutrient/oxygen supply to deep tissues.

Improves digestion.

Promotes softening and elasticity of old scars (internal or external) and keloids.

Provides an anti-cancer effect.

An infrared sauna typically has a 10-15 minute warm-up so you can have a session on the spur of the moment and running costs for two people are a mere 15p per hour.

And unlike the saunas of yesteryear, you can enjoy the tropical experience with the added comfort of being able to easily breathe.

Another stigma attached to a traditional sauna is the impracticality of moving it from house to house, but infrared saunas require no plumbing or specialist wiring and can be easily transported.