The sauna has been around for at least 2000 years. Many cultures have developed their own methods and names for essentially the same device. In North America the Finnish or traditional sauna and the Native American sweat lodge are the most common. However in recent years the relatively new far infrared sauna has become very popular. Infrared sauna manufactures claims tout the added benefits of using a far infrared emitter to heat both the sauna and more importantly the body of the user.
The far infrared sauna is in many ways very different than the traditional sauna. The major difference comes from the heat source. The traditional sauna uses either a wood, electric or propane stove that is covered with rocks to produce the high temperatures needed for a good sweat. The far infrared sauna is heated by either ceramic or carbon fiber infrared emitters that are shaped in panels that are placed on the walls of the sauna. Ceramic infrared emitters the most common far infrared sauna heat source on the market today. They heat to a surface temperature, are more durable but more fragile than carbon fiber emitters. Carbon fiber emitters have a lower surface temperature, heat faster and are less fragile.
The far infrared electromagnetic spectrum is above the visible light spectrum that our eyes can see. It is essentially the same energy that the sun emits without the visible, ultraviolet and near wavelengths. This means the energy from a far infrared emitter is safe to human body. The long wave of the far infrared heats the air less than the radiant heat from a conventional sauna stove. However it converts its energy to heat once it strikes the human body. This dry heat is reported to reach into the body to a depth of at least 1 ½ inches. According to far infrared sauna manufactures this type of heat provides all kinds of health benefits.
Far infrared saunas can be purchased via the Internet from many manufactures. Sauna sales numbers show the number if infrared saunas is growing. Sauna sizes are frequently described by the number of people that can use them at one time. At this time 2 and 3 person sauna kits are the most popular on the market. The best far infrared sauna structure is made of cedar which has a great aroma and is very rot resistant. Most far infrared sauna kits are relatively light in weight and can be installed just about any house. They do not need special plumbing or electrical hook ups. In almost all cases they can be powered using a common household electrical outlet. Many far infrared sauna kits can be assembled and used the same day they are delivered to your home. Only a few house hand tools are required to complete the assembly.
If you want to experience most of the benefits of a traditional sauna at a reasonable price then a far infrared sauna may be just what you are looking for. They are relatively cheap and can be installed by a homeowner just about anywhere.