THE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF INFRARED SAUNAS
Sweat Your Way to a Better Mood
As we continue celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month here at Pittsburgh Fitness Project, we’re turning the spotlight on one of the most relaxing tools in our recovery lounge: the infrared sauna.
You probably already know that getting a good sweat can help you feel physically refreshed. But did you know that a session in an infrared sauna can also lift your mood and support your mental well-being? Let’s take a look at how this powerful combo of heat and light can support both your body and your brain.
What’s an Infrared Sauna, Anyway?
Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you using steam or hot rocks, infrared saunas use light waves to heat your body directly. This means you’ll feel warm and start sweating without needing to sit in super-high temperatures.
Even though the temps are lower, infrared saunas are packed with health benefits—both physical and mental.
Physical Perks of Infrared Sauna Use
That deep, detoxifying sweat you get from infrared heat helps flush toxins from your body, which supports overall health and recovery. It also improves blood flow and boosts circulation, which helps reduce inflammation and ease muscle soreness.
Many of our members love hopping into the sauna after a tough workout to speed up recovery and calm down those aching muscles—and it’s no surprise why!
How Infrared Saunas Boost Your Mood
Here’s where things get even more interesting.
The heat from an infrared sauna triggers your body to release endorphins—those feel-good hormones that naturally relieve stress and pain. It also helps balance out your brain chemistry by boosting serotonin (a key mood stabilizer) and lowering cortisol, your body’s main stress hormone.
All of this adds up to a calmer mind, reduced anxiety, and a general sense of well-being. And the peaceful, quiet setting of the sauna certainly doesn’t hurt either.
Infrared Saunas & Mental Health: What the Research Says
Emerging studies are showing that consistent use of infrared saunas may help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and even PTSD. That’s because heat therapy can support the production of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin—neurochemicals that play a major role in emotional balance and mental clarity.
The connection between physical and mental health is strong, and regular infrared sauna use supports both sides of that equation.
Tips for Using an Infrared Sauna for Mental Wellness
If you’re new to infrared saunas, here are a few tips to help you get started safely and effectively:
• Start slow: Begin with 10–15 minute sessions and gradually work your way up as your body adjusts.
• Aim for consistency: To get the most benefit, try to use the sauna 2–3 times per week.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after your session—you’ll be sweating more than you think!
• Skip the substances: Don’t use alcohol or other drugs before sauna sessions.
• Listen to your body: If you feel dizzy or overheated, step out and cool down.
Come Relax with Us
Adding infrared sauna sessions to your weekly routine can be a game changer for both your physical recovery and your mental wellness. While they’re not a cure for stress or anxiety, they’re a powerful complement to a healthy lifestyle that includes movement, rest, and balance.
We have multiple infrared saunas right here in the recovery lounge at Pittsburgh Fitness Project, and we’d love for you to come see what the hype is all about.
Now that you know the benefits, why not experience it for yourself? Book a session and take a well-deserved moment to reset, relax, and recharge. Your mind and body will thank you. Ready to sweat it out the smart way?
Email us at info@pittsburghfitnessproject.com or call (412) 782-5438 to schedule your session today!