Last Updated on June 28, 2023
Motherhood is a beautiful journey filled with unparalleled joy, love, and an assortment of challenges. Transitioning into this new phase of life can be overwhelming, especially when paired with sleepless nights, hormonal fluctuations, and physical recovery after childbirth. Undoubtedly, these early days of motherhood demand exceptional resilience, both physically and emotionally. And amidst this whirlwind of adjustments, new mothers often seek solace and relief in restorative practices that can help them recover and rejuvenate. An increasingly popular choice among new mothers to help cope with postpartum recovery and stress is the infrared sauna.
In the world of wellness, infrared saunas are gaining recognition for their potential benefits, ranging from improved heart health to robust immune function. This guide delves into the science and benefits of infrared saunas and uncovers why they may serve as a beneficial tool in the postnatal self-care toolkit for new mothers.
In contrast to traditional saunas that use heat to warm the air around you, infrared saunas employ infrared light to warm your body directly. This innovative technology allows your body to sweat quicker and gain the benefits of a sauna without enduring intense heat. However, the advantages of infrared saunas go beyond the general health benefits; they offer unique benefits tailored to the needs of new mothers.
One of the primary post-pregnancy concerns for many women is bloating, a residual effect of carrying a baby. Pregnancy triggers water retention, leading to bloating and swelling in various parts of the body, including the tummy, hands, and feet. Regular sessions in an infrared sauna can help shed this excess water, alleviate bloating, and contribute to water weight loss. Reducing swelling not only alters your physical appearance but also enhances your comfort during the tender postpartum period. It is crucial, however, to stay adequately hydrated before and after sauna sessions to counterbalance the water loss through sweat.
The detoxification potential of infrared saunas offers another intriguing advantage for new mothers. Childbirth often involves the administration of medications, including painkillers and antibiotics, remnants of which may linger in your body long after delivery. The sweating induced by infrared saunas helps to flush out these residual toxins and chemicals, aiding your body in resetting and resting post-childbirth.
Pregnancy induces changes in your body’s circulatory system, thickening your blood and expanding its volume to support your growing baby. This, coupled with the pressure exerted by the baby on your pelvic region, can compromise circulation, potentially leading to issues like varicose veins. Infrared sauna sessions can boost circulation, enhancing heart health and gradually normalizing circulatory functions post-pregnancy.
A lesser-known advantage of spending time in an infrared sauna is the potential metabolic boost. The heat permeating your body during a sauna session enhances circulation and simultaneously increases your inner body temperature, a combination that can elevate metabolic activity. This means that you could be burning extra calories during and after a sauna session without any additional physical exertion.
Pregnancy can take a toll on your joints, with added pressure on the hips, knees, and ankles causing discomfort during and post-pregnancy. Like all heat therapies, infrared saunas can help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint and muscular pain, providing relief during the recovery phase.
Aside from these physical benefits, infrared saunas are also a refuge for mental wellness. For new mothers, any opportunity to have some alone time and indulge in self-care can have profound implications for mental health. The solitude of a sauna session, paired with its physical benefits, can help reduce stress and boost mental health. It can serve as a sanctuary where new mothers can retreat for much-needed rest and relaxation. To conclude, the soothing warmth of an infrared sauna could be the perfect postnatal treat for new mothers navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood. However, it is important to remember that saunas, due to their body temperature elevating properties, are not suitable for expectant mothers. For those in the postpartum phase, infrared saunas may offer a unique blend of physical and mental health benefits, paving the way for a smoother transition into this new chapter of life. Enjoy your journey of motherhood with a little help from the restorative magic of infrared saunas.
