Joe Rogan And The Use Of Low EMF Infrared Sauna Therapy
"Sauna use has been a part of my wellness journey for years. The heat, the solitude, the escape—it's more than just a ritual, it's a revitalizing experience." - Joe Rogan.
In our busy world where wellness often takes a backseat, these words by Rogan have inspired many to explore the heat-based relaxation method that has been a cornerstone of health and wellness practices for centuries—saunas. Notably, Rogan is an avid proponent of both infrared saunas and traditional sauna usage. But how do these saunas differ, and what does Rogan specifically like about the infrared kind?
Joe Rogan: A Sauna Fanatic
Joe Rogan, a comedian, podcast host, and mixed martial arts commentator, has a significant influence on modern health and wellness conversations. His advocacy for sauna use and the intriguing perspective he brings through his experiences have made the topic of saunas more mainstream.
Rogan’s has shared very publicly that he utilizes both traditional and infrared sauna types. He often discusses the advantages of infrared saunas on his podcast, citing personal benefits such as better sleep, increased relaxation, and improved post-workout recovery.
Why Rogan Uses Infrared Saunas
Rogan cites several reasons for his usage for infrared saunas. The deep penetrating heat of infrared saunas is believed to enhance detoxification, muscle relaxation, and post-workout recovery. Rogan also appreciates the lower temperatures in infrared saunas, making his sauna sessions more enjoyable and less oppressive.
Furthermore, Rogan is a big believer in trying different wellness practices and seeing what works best for his body and lifestyle. He has discussed on his podcast how the use of infrared saunas fits seamlessly into his routine, making them his go-to choice.
During one of his podcasts, Rogan had a conversation with Rhonda Patrick, a biomedical scientist and expert in nutritional health. They discussed the health benefits of saunas, with Rogan expressing his preference for infrared saunas. He said that he uses his infrared sauna regularly and has found it beneficial for relaxation, recovery after intense workouts, and overall well-being.
On another occasion, during a podcast episode with Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist at Stanford University, Rogan again brought up the topic of infrared saunas. He stated his belief that the heat stress induced by the infrared sauna can improve cardiovascular health and aid in detoxification. He further shared that he enjoys the intense heat of the infrared sauna and how it makes him feel afterward, describing the experience as invigorating and rejuvenating. Rogan's discussions around infrared saunas are not just passing comments but reflections of his consistent enthusiasm for this wellness practice.
So Is An Infrared Sauna Better Than A Traditional Sauna?
Whether you are a sauna enthusiast, a fan of Joe Rogan, or someone interested in exploring new dimensions of wellness, this piece will provide you insights into the fascinating world of saunas and their role in promoting health and wellness. We hope this journey leaves you informed, intrigued, and perhaps even inspired to try a sauna—be it a traditional, infrared, barrel, or even a hybrid sauna—in your pursuit of wellness.
Traditional Saunas
The Origins and Operation of Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas, often known as Finnish or dry saunas, have a rich history embedded in Finnish and Scandinavian culture. These saunas are marked by their wood-lined interiors and a stove, either electric or wood-burning, which heats the sauna room. As the stove heats the air, users experience increasing temperatures, typically between 70-100°C (158-212°F), leading to deep sweating and subsequent health benefits.
Benefits of Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas offer an array of advantages. The high heat promotes deep sweating, aiding in detoxification. Furthermore, it can improve cardiovascular performance, boost mood, and even alleviate symptoms of certain conditions like arthritis. Sauna use can also stimulate the release of growth hormones, contributing to better physical performance and recovery, as discussed in this study.
Infrared Saunas
The Science Behind Infrared Saunas
While traditional saunas use heated air to warm the body, infrared saunas utilize infrared light waves. These waves, unseen by the human eye, penetrate the skin and heat the body directly. This direct heating method enables infrared saunas to operate at lower temperatures—around 45-60°C (113-140°F)—which some people find more comfortable than traditional saunas.
Benefits of Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas provide benefits akin to those of traditional saunas but with a few key differences. Infrared heat penetrates more deeply into the body, potentially enhancing detoxification and muscle relaxation. Some research suggests that infrared saunas could be more effective in certain areas, such as lowering blood pressure and aiding chronic health issues. Additionally, the lower operating temperature might make the sauna experience more tolerable for those sensitive to heat.
What Is Low EMF Near, Mid, And Far-Infrared Therapy?
Near-infrared light (NIR) is the shortest infrared wavelength and closest to the visible light spectrum. It penetrates the skin's surface more effectively than the other two. This makes it particularly beneficial for skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and cell health as it stimulates the mitochondria in cells, thereby enhancing cellular energy and regeneration. Also known as red light therapy, uses the near-infrared part of the light spectrum (700-2500 nm range) to deliver specific wavelengths of light to the body. These wavelengths have been shown to have a variety of therapeutic benefits, such as promoting skin health, wound healing, muscle recovery, and reducing inflammation and pain.
Mid-infrared light (MIR) has a longer wavelength and can penetrate deeper into the body's soft tissue where inflammation occurs. This allows MIR to help expand blood vessels and improve circulation, offering an effective way to alleviate inflammation and promote faster healing of injuries. It's also capable of providing pain relief and relaxation.
Far-infrared light (FIR) has the longest wavelength and reaches the deepest into the body, where it gently raises the body's core temperature. This can induce a therapeutic sweat, which is integral to many of the health benefits associated with sauna use. The detoxification effect of FIR helps to purge the body of toxins, improving overall wellness. It also stimulates metabolic processes and can assist in weight loss.
In low EMF infrared saunas, all three types of infrared light are utilized to varying degrees to provide a balanced and beneficial sauna experience. The combination of these wavelengths provides a holistic approach to wellness, encompassing everything from skin health to deeper tissue repair and overall detoxification.
What Are Some Scientific Studies Around Infrared Sauna Benefits?
A 2005 Japanese study conducted by Masuda et al. revealed promising findings about infrared sauna therapy's effects on chronic pain management. In the study, patients with chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, undertook infrared sauna treatments regularly over several weeks. The study reported that these patients experienced significant reductions in pain along with improved quality of life and better sleep quality. This therapy, often called "Waon therapy," involved the patients being exposed to infrared radiation in a sauna for 15 minutes, followed by a 30-minute period of rest outside the sauna while wrapped in a blanket. This process was repeated on a daily basis for the duration of the study, with the results showing significant improvements in pain, fatigue, and depression.
Masuda, A., Koga, Y., Hattanmaru, M., Minagoe, S., & Tei, C. (2005). The effects of repeated thermal therapy for patients with chronic pain. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 74(5), 288-294. doi:10.1159/000086319
Another important study worth noting is titled "Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review" by Hannuksela ML, Ellahham S. This research, published in 2001, explored the impact of infrared sauna bathing on patients with chronic heart failure. Over several weeks, patients were subjected to regular infrared sauna bathing and showed significant improvement in cardiovascular function. There was a decrease in heart rate and cardiac output, and an increase in stroke volume and ejection fraction, suggesting improved heart function. The study concluded that repeated sauna treatment could be safe and beneficial for patients with chronic heart failure, improving their symptoms and cardiac function.
In a more recent study published in 2018, titled "Effects of Far-Infrared Sauna Bathing on Recovery from Strength and Endurance Training Sessions in Men," researchers discovered that far-infrared saunas could improve recovery from physical exercise. Participants in the study who used the far-infrared sauna after strength and endurance training sessions had better recovery rates compared to those who didn't. This suggests that infrared sauna bathing could be a useful method for enhancing post-exercise muscle recovery, potentially leading to improved performance.
Criticisms and Controversies Around Infrared Saunas
Despite the popularity of infrared saunas, they have not been immune to criticisms and controversies. One significant criticism involves the levels of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) in these saunas. Some critics argue that high levels of EMFs, particularly in cheaply made saunas, could pose health risks. However, it's important to note that many high-quality infrared saunas, such as those offered by Backyard Escapism, are designed with low EMF levels.
Another controversy involves the claims made by some manufacturers about the health benefits of infrared saunas. While these saunas have been linked to various health benefits, more comprehensive scientific research is needed to substantiate some of these claims. It's always crucial to approach wellness trends with a balanced view, understanding that what works for one individual may not work for another.
Some manufacturers and distributors of infrared saunas have made extravagant health claims. While infrared saunas might indeed aid in these areas to some degree, critics argue that these claims are often overstated or not adequately supported by scientific evidence. It's essential to remember that while saunas can be part of a healthy lifestyle, they aren't a substitute for medical treatment or a balanced diet and regular exercise in terms of weight management.
Additionally, the heat from infrared saunas can be intense and may pose risks for certain individuals, such as those with cardiovascular issues or those who are pregnant. It's recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new sauna regimen.
Joe Rogan and the Wellness Community's Response
Joe Rogan acknowledges these controversies, emphasizing the importance of buying infrared saunas from reputable brands that ensure low EMF levels. He encourages listeners to do their own research and experiment with different wellness practices to see what best fits their lifestyle and preferences.
Likewise, the wellness community encourages a balanced view of infrared saunas. While recognizing the potential health benefits, experts also advocate for more research and warn against viewing any single wellness practice as a panacea for all health issues.
What are the Benefits of Cold Plunge and Infrared Sauna?
Rogan frequently discusses the benefits of pairing sessions in an infrared sauna with cold plunges. He views this combination as a vital part of his routine to improve overall well-being, enhance recovery after workouts, and manage stress.
The heat from the infrared sauna, according to Rogan, can aid in muscle relaxation, increase circulation, and promote detoxification. Following the heat with a cold plunge is said to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, causing blood vessels to contract and then dilate when the body warms back up. This process, known as vasodilation and vasoconstriction, helps remove metabolic waste, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow.
Rogan points to the long-standing tradition of contrast therapy in many cultures - from Scandinavian saunas followed by dips in icy lakes to Japanese hot spring (Onsen) baths followed by cool water immersion. He believes that this practice, when paired with a balanced diet and regular exercise, can lead to improved cardiovascular health, better immune response, and enhanced mood.
Despite his enthusiasm, Rogan also emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new wellness practice, especially for those with underlying health conditions. He also advises that the process should be gradual, starting with mild temperature differences and working up to more extreme changes.
Conclusion: Understanding Sauna Types and Embracing Wellness
Whether you lean towards the age-old traditional sauna or are intrigued by the benefits of infrared saunas, the choice depends on your individual preferences and lifestyle, much like Joe Rogan.
Rogan’s relationship with saunas illustrates the importance of personalizing your wellness routines. His preference for infrared saunas resonates with his desire for effective post-workout recovery, relaxation, and a deep sense of wellness, while his keenness on sauna-cold plunge combinations reflects his broader approach to wellness.
It's essential to acknowledge that while saunas offer numerous benefits, they are just one aspect of a comprehensive wellness strategy. Balance and consistency in health practices, along with a focus on diet, exercise, and mental health, are crucial for sustained wellbeing.
Whether you're contemplating adding a traditional, infrared, or even a hybrid sauna to your wellness routine, remember that the best choice is one that aligns with your needs, preferences, and wellness objectives. If you want the flexibility of both in a hybrid option, take a look these Nature 8 and Nature 9 Plus models. May your journey to wellness, like the heat in a sauna, always rise, bringing you closer to a healthier, happier, and more balanced you.