By The Other 23 Wellness & Med Spa — Sauna • Wellness • Health • Near me
Sauna therapy is booming — and for good reason. Whether you’re searching “Infrared sauna near me” or researching the best ways to boost wellness, saunas are an accessible, relaxing way to support heart health, recovery, and stress relief. At The Other 23 Wellness & Med Spa we offer thoughtful sauna options so you can choose what fits your lifestyle. Below we break down the top three benefits of traditional saunas and infrared saunas, summarize how they differ, and point to reputable studies so you can read the science first-hand.
What’s the difference?
A traditional sauna (Finnish-style) heats the air with a stove and hot rocks, producing dry, high temperatures that make you sweat. An infrared sauna uses infrared panels that emit light waves, warming your body more directly at lower ambient temperatures. Both produce heat stress that triggers beneficial physiological responses, but the experience, temperature, and certain outcomes can differ. GoodRx+1
Top 3 benefits of traditional sauna
1. Cardiovascular health and longevity
Regular use of traditional saunas has been strongly associated with lower cardiovascular risk and reduced all-cause mortality in large cohort studies. Frequent sauna bathing (several times per week) correlates with lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, and improved long-term outcomes. If heart health is a priority, traditional sauna evidence is particularly robust. PMC+1
2. Improved blood pressure & circulation
High-heat sessions cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which temporarily lowers blood pressure and improves circulation — a response similar to moderate exercise. Over time, repeated exposures can contribute to sustained cardiovascular benefits. Physiological Journals
3. Pain relief and relaxation
The heat and increased blood flow can relieve muscle tension and joint pain, making traditional saunas a helpful complement for chronic pain conditions and recovery from some injuries. Multiple clinical reviews outline improvements in pain and quality of life after repeated sauna therapy. PMC+1
Top 3 benefits of infrared sauna
1. Muscle recovery and reduced soreness
Infrared saunas penetrate more directly and operate at lower temperatures, which many users find more tolerable after workouts. Studies show infrared sessions can speed neuromuscular recovery and reduce post-exercise soreness. If your focus is workout recovery, infrared is worth considering. PMC+1
2. Comfortable, longer sessions at lower temps
Because infrared cabins run cooler, people often stay inside longer and enjoy prolonged heat exposure without the intense high temps of traditional saunas. This makes infrared appealing for relaxation, stress reduction, and those who don’t tolerate extreme heat. Mayo Clinic
3. Emerging evidence for blood pressure & metabolic benefits
Some trials and reviews suggest infrared (including far-infrared) therapy can reduce oxidative stress and may support improvements in blood pressure and metabolic markers, though larger trials are still needed. Infrared shows promise as a complementary therapy for metabolic and cardiovascular health. PMC+1
Which one should you choose?
Both traditional and infrared saunas offer real wellness benefits. If your priority is strong, widely replicated evidence for cardiovascular health and longevity, traditional sauna use — especially frequent sessions — has the deepest evidence base. If you want gentle, tolerable heat for longer sessions and quicker post-exercise recovery, infrared may be the better fit. Many people enjoy alternating both types depending on goals and tolerance. PMC+1
Safety & practical tips
Sauna use is generally safe for healthy adults, but always consult your healthcare provider if you have cardiovascular disease, low blood pressure, are pregnant, or take medications that affect heat tolerance. Hydrate before and after sessions, start with shorter stays (5–10 minutes) and gradually increase, and listen to your body — exit at the first sign of dizziness, nausea, or extreme discomfort. PMC+1
Read the research (quick links)
Prospective cohort linking frequent sauna use to reduced cardiovascular mortality. PMC
Mayo Clinic Proceedings review on sauna bathing and health outcomes. Mayo Clinic Proceedings
Clinical review: effects and safety of dry sauna bathing. PMC
Infrared sauna and post-exercise recovery study. PMC
Far-infrared therapy review and cardiovascular risk. PMC
Ready to try a sauna near you? At The Other 23 Wellness & Med Spa we offer curated sauna experiences designed to support cardiovascular health, recovery, stress relief, and overall wellness. Search “The Other 23 sauna near me” or visit our location page to book a personalized session today.