IR SAUNA FAQ

• Why is an Infrared Sauna better than a traditional sauna?

Infrared heaters warm the body in the same manner as natural sunlight. Infrared heat therapy uses the wavelength of the visible and non-visible light spectrum of sunlight that heats the body normally. Traditional saunas raise the air temperature to a very high level within the chamber to warm the body. Some people have difficulty breathing in this extremely warm air. Infrared saunas work differently. Instead of heating the air within the enclosure, infrared saunas heat the body directly. The result is deeper tissue penetration. In an infrared sauna, the body perspires and receives all of the healthy benefits but avoids the harmful and extremely hot air of a traditional steam sauna.

• How hot is it inside the sauna?

Our saunas are heated to 145°F unless we get a different request. Due to the nature of our space and running appointments all day, we cannot guarantee anything above 150°F, but we'll try our best for those who love the heat (our saunas max out at 158°F, regardless). As mentioned above, the magic of IR saunas comes from the IR itself and not necessarily the heat. You get full benefits between 125-145°F.

• How long is each session?

The sauna is a full 30 minutes and you'll have a few minutes to change before and after.

• How many people fit in each sauna?

The sauna is the same price for one session and it fits one or two people comfortably. We have two separate saunas available.

• At which locations do you have saunas?

We have two infrared saunas at our Greenwood location, and one each at South Lake Union and Greenlake.

• How should I prepare for my sauna session?

With all the sweating, you want to make sure to hydrate! Please come to each session well-hydrated, not hungover or after drinking alcohol. Drinking water is available in the lobby. Please only use glass or stainless steel bottles in the sauna; plastic bottles are not permitted in the sauna. Towels are provided for your use. Please make sure to wipe off all oils and lotions prior to entering the sauna.

• Can I shower after my sauna session?

Showers are located in our float rooms, and are reserved for float appointments only. We recommend either showering when you get home, or better yet - book a float for right after your sauna! As long as you’re hydrated, the combination can be incredibly blissful. Your body and mind will have a much easier time relaxing into a deeply meditative and relaxing state during your float.

• Are robes provided?

Yes, there is a $5 robe service charge for sauna sessions. Robes are complimentary if you book a float before or after your sauna session.

• I’d like to sauna before my float - any tips?

It’s an awesome combination! In general, anything that helps your body relax will take you deeper in your float session. Definitely stay hydrated, and book your sauna 45 minutes before your float appointment. This allows 30 minutes for the sauna, with a 10-15 minute cool-down period.

• What are the benefits of using Infrared Saunas?

The infrared sauna helps you detoxify, improves circulation, lymphatic drainage and cardiovascular health, reduces pain, increases your metabolic rate to jump-start healthy weight loss, rejuvenates your skin, and reduces stress and cortisol levels. Check out more on our main sauna page here, or read this 20-page report from Dr. Rhonda Patrick.

• How often should I use an Infrared Sauna?

There is no one answer for the amount of sessions per week, but infrared saunas are safe to use every day. In fact, you will see wellness improvements sooner if you use it daily. On average, most people partake in 20-30 minute sessions, 2-4 times a week.

• I’m taking prescription medications. Can I use the saunas?

Individuals who are using prescription drugs should seek the advice of their personal physician or a pharmacist for possible changes in the drugs effect when the body is exposed to infrared waves or elevated body temperature. Diuretics, barbiturates and beta-blockers may impair the body’s natural heat loss mechanisms. Anticholinergics such as amitryptaline may inhibit sweating and can predispose individuals to heat rash or to a lesser extent, heat stroke. Some over-the-counter drugs, such as antihistamines, may also cause the body to be more prone to heat stroke.

• Can I use the sauna if I’m pregnant?

This is generally not recommended. We advise you to consult with your own physician before using infrared saunas while pregnant.

• I’ve heard about electromagnetic fields (EMFs) — is your infrared sauna safe from EMFs?

EMFs are like invisible energy emissions that come from any object that uses electricity. Most common electrical objects give off such low levels of EMF that they pose no risk to humans. Though infrared saunas are large and powered by electricity, the technology used in our infrared sauna keeps EMF in an extremely low range of 0.2 to 0.3 mG. For context, the Environmental Protection Agency has previously proposed a safety standard of 3 mG, with anything below 3 mG being deemed as safe

• Do you do walk-ins?

The saunas take 50-60 minutes to heat up to temperature. Please always book in advance to gaurantee an available hot sauna for the time you'd like to come in.

• Is it clean?

Yes! Our saunas are sanitized with natural cleaners after each use. The heat and infrared light also helps to kill any bacteria and airborne germs.

• Who cannot use the saunas?

Infrared Sauna use is not recommended for people who are pregnant, children under 12, those who cannot handle temperature extremes, those with hemophila, fever, insensitivity to heat, and those under the influence of alcohol or recovering from alcohol use. Please consult your physician if you: have cardiovascular disease; hypertension or hypotension; are taking prescription medication; have metal pins, rods or artificial joints; or have condition making you prone to bleeding.