7 Benefits of Infrared Sauna Use for Endometriosis
the science behind the sweat
Here’s a fun fact: On average, women will spend 7 years of their life menstruating. This means for those of us with endometriosis, we will likely spend 7(ish) years in pain. How fun!
While treatment for endometriosis is mostly geared around managing symptoms with things like over-the-counter pain meds, surgery to remove adhesions and birth control, there are lifestyle changes and more holistic options available that can lessen the severity of the condition.
One of my girlfriends who just got married was extra glowy on her wedding day and she swore it was due to the weekly sauna sessions she committed to doing the last few months. Infrared saunas specifically, are said to boost your immune system by significantly reducing the occurrences of colds and flu, improve skin hydration and overall complexion, as well as sleep, but when I heard they were also beneficial for those of us with endometriosis, my ears perked up.
I recently stopped by the dtXfy renewal studio for a red light therapy and infrared sauna sesh after hearing the many benefits it has on promoting the healing and cellular regeneration in the body..
PAIN MANAGEMENT
Time in the sauna encourages the production and circulation of more endorphins. Endorphins essentially block the nerve cells that receive pain signals, so your perception of pain is decreased significantly with an endorphin boost.
CIRCULATION
That “deep sweat” you get from an infrared sauna helps peripheral blood vessels to dilate and increases the rate at which blood is delivered to tissue throughout your body, which can mean overall improved circulation, improved organ function and heightened recovery after a flare up.
DETOX
Sauna use stimulates circulation, pushing gnarly toxins like xenoestrogens, which are endocrine disruptors (named for their estrogen-mimicking behavior) commonly linked to miscarriages, endometriosis, breast cancer, etc. from your tissue out through the skin’s surface.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease at the end of the day, so creating a lifestyle that reduces inflammation levels in the body is critical in managing the condition. Because infrared saunas promote oxygen-rich circulation of the blood, infrared sauna bathing has been known to reduce inflammation and swelling and alleviate joint or muscle pain tension.
STRESS RELIEF
Managing stress levels is critical in managing endometriosis as stress can exacerbate symptoms of the chronic illness further. Resetting in an infrared sauna can bring a new sense of calm to the chaos, help your brain and body detox, and balance your hormones. The gentle, persistent heat experienced during the session can help reduce the level of cortisol— the stress hormone— in our blood.
MOOD
Infrared sauna bathing also stimulates the production of serotonin, “the happy hormone,” in our blood, leading to improved mood. The endorphins mentioned above help with this too!
HORMONE IMBALANCE
Even hormone imbalances and the associated symptoms, like chronic acne and irregular menstruation, can be corrected through infrared light therapy. Because infrared saunas can help to lower cortisol levels, time spent in the sauna can help balance insulin, testosterone, estrogen and provide support for the adrenals and thyroid.
All it takes is a few minutes a day to look and feel better. Follow @houseofendo on Instagram for more!
