Detoxing with Purify Infrared Sauna

This morning I did something that I've been wanting to do for quite some time now...go to a sauna!  After reading the countless benefits over the past couple of years and how it aids with everything from chronic disease, stress and aging I knew that I wanted to give it a try.  I did some research and came across Purify up in Richmond and decided to book a session.  The designer in me was instantly drawn to their modern spa-like aesthetic while the consumer in me drawn to the great prices.  With my birthday coming up next week I told my husband that to celebrate I'd like to give it a try.  I had no idea what to expect (besides the fact that I was going to be doing a lot of sweating) but after doing it once I would say that I'm hooked for life.  Already after one visit I can feel a soothing effect on my muscles and joints, and see a change in my complexion.  

What is light therapy?

Light therapy, also known as chromotherapy, is a technique of restoring an overall sense of balance by means of applying color to the body.  According to the staff at Purify, "it's history is rooted as far back as the Mayan culture, and has been valued as a remarkable source of healing.  Light therapy uses colors for their proposed healing abilities in treating emotional and physical disturbances.  It is based on the premise that different colors evoke different responses in people.  Today, the therapeutic applications of light and color are being investigated in major hospitals and research centers worldwide." 

What are the benefits?

Those who practice light therapy can experience a range of therapeutic effects from conditions such as chronic pain, inflammation, depression, immune disorders, and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).   In terms of aging - something that I've had on my mind with my birthday coming up next week, light therapy can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, crows feet, and sun spots.  It basically helps to revitalize the skin, energizing cells to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which give skin it's youthful glow.

One of the aspects of chromotherapy that I found especially interesting was that the color light that you choose to use during your time in the infared sauna can have varying affects on you. 

Red and Pink Light

Red and pink light have energizing properties that help to release stiffness and constrictions; and can stimulate the circulatory systems, which can help with conditions such as arthritis.  This light can also increase the body temperature, trigger the sensory nerves that promote hearing, taste, and smell; and can also assist with a rise of metabolism and release of adrenalin. 

Yellow Light

ellow light helps to awaken the mind and mental inspiration.  It is excellent for nervous or nerve-related ailments and can also be used for conditions of the stomach, liver, and intestines (i.e. eczema, diabetes, liver trouble, gas, and constipation).  It encourages clarity of thought and increased awareness. 

Green Light

The color green is the universal color of healing and so it's light is used to heal a variety of conditions.  It balances and cleanses our energy, providing a sense of renewal and peace.  It has been known to help with ulcers, heart problems and stabilizing blood pressure. 

Blue Light

Blue light is used to assist with ailments in regards to speech, communication, and the throat.  It is the most mentally soothing colors and is associated with loyalty, stability and happiness.  It is useful when dealing with sleep issues, speech, and communication. 

Purple Light

Purple light is one of the best colors to assist with neurosis, diseases of the scalp, rheumatism, concussion, or epilepsy.  It purifies our thoughts and feelings and is a source of great inspiration.

What should I do before going to an infrared sauna?

There is minimal preparation that needs to be made before going to an infrared sauna however it is encouraged that you drink a healthy amount of water before and after your visit.  You also want to make sure that your skin is clean and product free, this includes: make-up, lotion, and perfume. 

After your time there it is suggested that you wait to shower.  It would be a bit of shock to your body which has been working hard to produce a sweat and has released a good deal of collagen and vitamin E.  "You kind of marinate in this stuff that’s really good for you," says Sophie Chiche of the Shape House out in California. "The toxins that come out of your body would only affect you if you were breathing it in, so it’s not an issue to leave the sweat on your skin – it’s actually very beneficial. Your skin knows how to protect itself. You won’t see irritation, just glow and nourishment."

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*This post was not sponsored.

On Infrared Saunas + Deep Detox with Shape House's Sophie Chiche | The Chalkboard Mag | Mandel, Alyssa. 2016.

Purify.