Winter in many regions  can be a season for dormancy, incubation, and reflection.However, for some people, the reduced exposure to sunlight can result in a type of clinical depression which is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Even for those who are not experiencing SAD, the darker and colder winter days may simply contribute to feelings of low mood and decreased energy.

If you find yourself struggling with winter blues, consider incorporating a full spectrum infrared sauna (one that emits both near, mid, and far infrared light) to help alleviate the effects of shorter days and longer nights during the winter months.

Feeling the Winter Blues? How Infrared Saunas Can Help Boost Your Mood

While both infrared saunas and traditional steam saunas can help lift your mood during the winter, if you are suffering from a lack of sunlight exposure, you may consider using an infrared sauna to obtain some of the sun’s wavelengths.

The infrared light spectrum is naturally present in sunshine and is most potent during sunrise and sunset. Infrared light, as found naturally in the sun, is crucial for maintaining a proper circadian rhythm and mitochondrial function.

Unlike ultraviolet (UV) radiation, infrared light does not cause sunburn or damage the skin. Furthermore it is considered safe for the eyes. In fact, there is sufficient evidence to suggest that infrared light is beneficial to retinal health.

Using an infrared sauna during the winter is equivalent to taking a ‘light bath’. Although the infrared light wave frequency is undetectable to the human eye, it is perceived as heat.

So, while it is true that getting adequate light exposure from the sun is more difficult during the winter months, if you have an infrared sauna, you can harvest the benefits of the infrared spectrum of light while also receiving the advantages of heat therapy, as seen in the sauna.

Understanding Infrared Saunas as Light Baths

There is no doubt that nothing compares to the dazzling sun, but an infrared sauna can isolate the most beneficial bandwidth of the sun’s rays, potentially improving winter mood.

Most saunas on the market today feature colour light therapy in the ceiling. Colour lights can undoubtedly provide a pleasant atmosphere, but you may not be aware that many saunas use colour lights for health reasons. Each colour of light exists naturally in the sun’s brilliance. This means that if you don’t get enough sunlight in the winter, you won’t get enough colour light either.

Each colour of light has its own distinct wavelength, allowing the human eye to see photons as distinctive hues.

Individuals  lacking sufficient sunlight exposure miss out not just on the UV light spectrum, which falls just below 400 nanometers, but also on the benefits of full visible light spectrum. While the  majority SAD treatments of devices focus on UV light, it’s crucial to recognise the importance of the entire colour light spectrum for overall well-being.

If you want to improve your mood throughout the winter, you may consider exposing yourself to both colour light and other light frequencies.

Individuals who do not receive enough sunlight during the winter months must prioritise access to the colour light spectrum as frequently as possible in order to support their mood and well-being.

Even If You Cannot Sunbathe During Winter, Consider an Infrared Sauna Bath Instead

When considering solar exposure, we often overlook the many spectrums of sun rays. By using an infrared sauna, you can avoid the potentially damaging effects of the sun, such as UV radiation-induced skin damage, and instead bask in the glory of colour and infrared light.

A full-spectrum infrared sauna has cabin architecture with wavelengths ranging from 400 nanometers to 1200 nanometers. Human bodies absorb light waves, and staying in a controlled and enclosed device that surrounds and bathes you with positive light frequency effectively provides your body and brain with the light exposure they require during the winter months.

Final Thoughts: Winter Wellness with Infrared Saunas

If you’re experiencing mild to moderate  winter blues, consider incorporating regular  infrared sauna sessions to assist or replace the sun exposure you are missing. However, it is pertinent to understand that infrared saunas are not a substitute for professional medical treatments. If you are experiencing severe symptoms of SAD, please seek immediate help from a qualified mental health professional.

If you want to get some sun in the darkest days of winter without injuring your eyes or skin, contact us and learn more about our products!