Incorporating mindfulness or relaxation techniques into your infrared sauna sessions can enhance its effects on your mind, body, and soul. More often than not, however, when people think of these kinds of practices, only meditation comes to mind. While this is an effective practice for many, there are more kinds of relaxation practices that can suit different goals, needs, and preferences. Learn more about the different kinds of mindfulness practices you can incorporate to enhance the benefits of infrared sauna sessions and how to prepare your setup with our team at SunStream AUS below.
How to Unwind in Your Infrared Sauna Session
- Create a Dedicated Sauna Schedule
Set aside a regular time each week for your sauna sessions, treating them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. This will help you maintain consistency and build a healthy habit.
- Eliminate Distractions
Leave phones, tablets, and other devices outside the sauna. Let your sauna session be a time for complete disconnection from external demands.
- Enhance the Sensory Environment
You can enhance your sensory environment by adding certain things to your infrared sauna. This includes chromotherapy, essential oils, towels, etc.
- Hydrate and Prepare Your Body
Drink a glass of water or herbal tea before your session to prevent dehydration. Gentle stretches before stepping into the sauna can also relax muscles and prepare your body to fully absorb the heat.
- Set an Intention
Whether you aim to relieve stress, increase gratitude, or simply reconnect with yourself, having a clear intention guides your mindfulness practice.
Relaxation Techniques to Deepen the Benefits of Infrared Sauna Sessions
Here are some mindfulness techniques and how to practice them effectively during your sauna session:
1. Mindful Breathing
This practice encourages you to focus on your breath and anchor yourself in the moment, which then soothes your nervous system and reduces stress.
There are various breathing exercises within this practice. The most basic steps are inhaling through your nose and feeling your belly rise as you do so before exhaling through your nose or mouth, feeling your lungs empty. Repeat this multiple times until you feel calmer and more relaxed.
2. Body Scan Meditation
Body scan meditation heightens your awareness of physical sensations, helping you identify and release tension. To do this, take a deep breath and pay attention to how each part of your body feels, starting from the top of your head and moving downwards. Pay attention to sensations like tingling, tightness, discomfort, or pain. Acknowledge these sensations then imagine them melting away as you progress through your body.
3. Gratitude Practice
This practice shifts your focus to the more positive aspects of your life. While in the sauna, use the time to reflect on at least three things you are grateful for. Give the thoughts some time, and as you exhale, imagine pushing away any lingering negativity.
4. Guided Visualisation
For people who work better with visuals, guided visualisation practices can reap better results compared to other mindfulness practices. Once you find a comfortable spot in your sauna, take a deep breath and imagine a peaceful scene like a calm beach or a lush forest.
Pay attention to the details and picture yourself walking along that place. Immerse yourself in this for several minutes before slowly pulling yourself back to the present moment.
5. Mindful Sensory Awareness
Engaging your senses through this practice heightens awareness and anchors you in the present. To do this, pay attention to your sensory experiences, such as the warmth on your skin, the rhythm of your breath, or the subtle scents around you. Let these guide you in rooting yourself to your present condition and let it simmer in your mind before letting go at the end of the session.
Key Takeaway
Everybody’s needs are different, that’s why when merging these two practices, it’s also important to tailor each of them to fit the experience you want. For some, however, it might not be easy to find so take time to try different combinations. You can even ask holistic experts for help to gain an outside perspective on your needs and how they can be best met with the benefits of an infrared sauna.
If you’re ready to enhance your at-home relaxation and mindfulness rituals, SunStream Infrared Saunas offers premium home infrared sauna options. Explore our range today or contact us for more questions or inquiries.