Infrared sauna sessions are relaxing on their own, but if you pair them with other wellness practices, you can take the benefits to a whole new level. Whether you want to ease muscle tension, calm your mind, or enhance recovery, adding a few simple routines can make a big difference.
Here are five ways to combine infrared sauna use with other wellness habits.
1. Meditation and Mindfulness in the Sauna
The warmth of an infrared sauna helps your body relax, which also makes it easier to quiet your mind. That’s why it’s a great place to practice mindfulness or meditation. While in the sauna, try a simple breathing technique like inhaling for 4 seconds, exhaling for 6, and repeating.
Close your eyes and focus on your breath or how the heat feels on your skin. You can also use guided meditation or ambient music if your setup allows. Just 10 minutes of this can leave you feeling mentally refreshed. Over time, your brain may start associating the sauna with calm and mental clarity.
2. Gentle Stretching or Yoga
Infrared heat loosens muscles and joints, making it easier to stretch. Think of it as a mini hot yoga session—but more relaxed. Try seated stretches, like forward folds, gentle twists, or butterfly poses. Slow neck rolls or shoulder stretches are great too.
Keep movements light and don’t push too far; the heat makes you feel more flexible, but it’s still important to listen to your body. A few minutes of stretching in the sauna can reduce soreness, improve mobility, and help your body recover faster after workouts.
3. Contrast Therapy with Cold Exposure
Alternating between heat and cold—called contrast therapy—can boost circulation, improve immune function, and increase energy. After 15 to 20 minutes in the sauna, try a cold shower, a quick ice bath, or step outside if it’s cold out. Stay in the cold for 1–2 minutes, then return to the sauna if you want to repeat the cycle.
This hot-cold switch helps move blood through your body and can leave you feeling invigorated. Just make sure the cold doesn’t feel overwhelming, and always check with a doctor if you have heart conditions.
4. Aromatherapy with Essential Oils
Adding essential oils to your sauna session can make the experience even more soothing. Try placing a few drops on a towel, using a diffuser, or setting a small bowl of water with oils in a safe spot inside the sauna. Popular choices include:
-
Lavender – calming and great before bedtime
-
Eucalyptus – helps with clear breathing
-
Peppermint – refreshing and uplifting
-
Tea Tree – cleansing and good for skin
Stick to a small amount—heat intensifies smells. Use only pure essential oils, and keep them away from heaters or plastic parts.
5. Post-Sauna Massage or Self-Massage
When your body is warm, your muscles are more relaxed, making massage more effective. After your session (and maybe a quick rinse), try a foam roller, massage ball, or even a partner massage to work out any knots.
Focus on tight areas like the back, shoulders, or legs. The increased blood flow helps your muscles recover and can ease lingering tension. If you like, apply a natural muscle relief lotion afterward to boost the benefits.
Final Thoughts
Infrared saunas offer a great base for building a simple wellness routine. Whether you combine your session with stretching, mindfulness, aromatherapy, cold therapy, or massage, these add-ons can enhance both your mental and physical health.
You don’t need to do everything at once—try one or two, see what feels best, and build from there. The key is to enjoy the process and tune in to what your body needs.
