The Sauna Blanket Journey Begins
My “sauna blanket journey” started a couple years ago, after reading about the benefits of infrared saunas on lifestyle blogs. I was curious and open, but also slightly skeptical – was this just another expensive wellness fad that privileged women fall for? [1]
To dip my toes in, I started visiting a local spa that had an infrared sauna. I would sit in there for about 30 minutes, 3 times a week, and loved how I felt afterwards. The sweat, the euphoric happiness – it was all real. I noticed my joints felt better too, as if the heat was having an anti-inflammatory effect.
So when my friend Whitney raved about an amazing infrared sauna blanket she had discovered, I was intrigued. She spoke passionately about the EMF safety and other features, convincing my roommate and I to each ask for one as a gift that Christmas. [2]
Unpacking the Sauna Blanket
When the blanket arrived, I was equal parts excited and nervous. This was no ordinary throw – it was a high-tech, high-heat sleeping bag designed to make you sweat like crazy. The instructions were clear: dress in loose, breathable layers, lay a towel down, and get ready for an intense 50-minute session. [3]
I started my first session armed with some reality TV, a water bottle, and an open mind. The first 20 minutes were cozy and relaxing, as the infrared heat gently enveloped me. But then it started to get serious – the temperature climbed higher and higher, and my body went into overdrive trying to cool itself down. [4]
“Mentally, I knew what to expect, but it never actually got easier. I’ve done this probably 40 times now, and the heat is just brutal.”
By the 45-minute mark, I was struggling. Staring at the clock, willing the time to go faster, desperate to rip myself out of the sweaty cocoon. But I powered through, remembering that the last 10 minutes are the most beneficial. [5]
The Aftermath and Benefits
Finally, the timer beeped, and I emerged, drenched in sweat and panting for fresh air. But the feeling afterwards was nothing short of amazing. My body felt incredibly relaxed, like all the tension had melted away. And my mood? Elevated to new heights. [6]
The science backs up these benefits too. Sweating is great for your skin, cardiovascular health, and mental wellbeing. It boosts circulation, flushes out toxins, and releases feel-good endorphins. And research shows that activities that make you sweat, even if you’re not moving much, can still burn a meaningful number of calories. [7]
“Pushing your body to do something hard (as long as it’s healthy) gives a release afterwards that gives you a hit of dopamine, which makes you feel happy.”
Now, I try to use the sauna blanket 3-4 times a week. It’s become a nightly ritual that I genuinely look forward to – a healthier alternative to unwinding with a glass of wine. And the benefits extend beyond just the physical. The mental reset I experience is invaluable, helping me sleep better and feel more centered. [8]
The Downsides and Cautions
Of course, the sauna blanket experience isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s intense, uncomfortable, and you have to be very careful. Overexposure can be dangerous, so the blanket shuts off automatically after 50 minutes. And if you have any heart conditions or other health issues, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before trying this. [9]
The process also has some practical downsides. Cleaning the blanket can be a chore, and the strong scent of sweat lingers even after washing. And you have to carve out a solid hour for the full session, plus additional time for cooling down afterwards. It’s not the most convenient wellness tool, but for me, the benefits outweigh the hassle.
Embracing the Sauna Lifestyle
Overall, incorporating a personal sauna into my routine has been a game-changer. It’s allowed me to experience the relaxation and rejuvenation of a spa day, in the comfort of my own home. And while the weight loss claims may be exaggerated, I do believe the sweating and increased heart rate translate to some genuine health benefits. [10]
If you’re intrigued by the idea of a home sauna but don’t want to invest in a bulky unit, I highly recommend exploring infrared sauna blankets. Just be sure to do your research, start slow, and always prioritize your safety. With the right approach, you can unlock a whole new level of self-care and relaxation – right in your own bathroom.
[1] https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/blog/infrared-sauna-blanket-review
[2] https://www.amazon.com/Portable-Lightweight-Personal-Generator-Relaxation/dp/B09KNF9Q1D
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/10e5rqp/was_your_infrared_sauna_worth_the_investment/
[4] https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Portable-Personal-Generator-Foldable/dp/B0CJ8M7QTK
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/10l8wxs/anyone_try_the_portable_saunas_they_sell_on_amazon/
[6] https://www.fieldmag.com/articles/sauna-kit-redwood-outdoors-review
[7] https://www.yogajournal.com/lifestyle/30-days-infrared-sauna/
[8] https://www.mohonk.com/spa/frequently-asked-questions/
[9] https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/10e5rqp/was_your_infrared_sauna_worth_the_investment/
[10] https://www.fieldmag.com/articles/sauna-kit-redwood-outdoors-review