Far infrared transforms saunas into no-steam therapy

Also known as radiant heat, FIR is light energy, at the five-to-15-micron level, which transforms into heat energy upon contact with objects, meaning the air around you remains comfortably cool. Infrared rays are able to penetrate five to seven centimetres into the body's tissue, causing vessels and capillaries to dilate, blood circulation to increase, and the body's temperature to rise; in turn, toxins are flushed out of the body through lots and lots of sweating.

Yoshimi Nakano, owner of the Shinzen Detoxification and Rejuvenation Centre (2786 West 16th Avenue, www.shinzencentre.com), spent 13 years as a pediatric nurse before steering her career and interests toward holistic, natural healing methods. With an avid interest in detoxification methods, Nakano says she firmly believes in the benefits of infrared saunas.

Besides detoxifying the body, infrared saunas can improve cardiovascular health. NASA has been experimenting with FIR for decades and has determined that infrared "passive exercise" is the ideal way to maintain fitness levels in a zero-gravity environment. Infrared saunas cause the heart to work a little harder, placing greater demands on the cardiovascular system.

By stimulating vasodilation of peripheral blood vessels and increasing oxygen delivered to joints, FIR is also said to ease chronic pain and speed the healing of injuries such as sprains, strains, and bruises.

Some people claim FIR boosts the immune system, and that using an infrared sauna during the early stages of a cold or flu can alleviate symptoms and shorten the length of the illness.

FIR can also improve the condition of the skin by increasing blood circulation and bringing nutrients up to the surface.

Others turn to infrared saunas for weight loss. One half-hour session supposedly burns at least 600 calories.

Be sure to ask questions before committing to a particular clinic, Nakano advises. For example, if the wood the sauna is made of isn't from Canada or isn't certified to be kiln-dried, chances are it's been fumigated with toxic chemicals, she claims. Also, some saunas may give off harmful gases when heated, whether from fumigation or from glues used during the sauna's manufacturing process. And if the sauna is getting too hot, it's operating at microns lower than the FIR range, which indicates you're not receiving the benefits of infrared rays and probably putting undue stress on your body.

Look for information on infrared saunas on-line and you'll see most of the Web sites are hosted by sauna manufacturers. Not surprisingly, they claim that the therapy has virtually zero side effects. Nakano, however, suggests that certain people take precautions before considering the therapy. Women who are pregnant, breast-feeding, or menstruating should avoid FIR. And people who are hyperglycemic or elderly, or have a depressed immune system, should get into this treatment gradually, with an initial lower temperature setting. People should also check with their doctor or pharmacist to make sure that FIR won't change the effectiveness of any prescription drugs. And it never hurts to get your own physician's advice before using an infrared sauna.

At just over 500 square feet, Nakano's small space is gracious, impeccably clean, and welcoming. The sauna itself is located within a separate, ventilated treatment room that includes a shower, shampoo and soap, and towels. The sauna is large enough for two adults to sit side by side or one adult to sit with her legs propped up. Speakers are wired inside to give the option of listening to calming background music. You'll be expending a lot of energy while sweating, so it's advisable not only to drink lots of water before and after but also to have a little snack beforehand. Nakano offers a $15 introductory rate; visits are $25 each after that for half an hour in the sauna.