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Can I Bring My Phone In An Infrared Sauna?
Of course you can, but we’d advise against it. The same goes for airpods, laptops, tablets, and the likes. For various reasons.
This question, echoing across social media platforms, shows our deep attachment to cell phones, even in spaces normally reserved for disconnection and detoxification.
Yet, the answer is not as black and white as it seems; it varies depending on the type of infrared sauna and how you use the phone. More importantly: what does sauna time mean to you?
The choice is yours, but there's a lot more to it than meets the eye.
Tech in the Sauna Heat
Mixing tech with the heat of an infrared sauna is tricky. Devices like smartphones, watches, tablets and wireless earbuds are not designed to withstand the sauna's high temperatures, which can reach up to 60°C (140°F).
Although many smart devices, such as phones and watches, are equipped with a thermal shutdown function, this can still lead to permanent damage after many heated sauna sessions.
There are some options to combine your IR sauna session with the use of electronic devices, we'll cover that later.
But for now it might be the time to consider a digital detox during sauna?
Unplugged Sauna time
Stepping into the sauna is a moment for your mind and body to cleanse, away from the buzz of your inbox and social feeds. Think of it as a retreat, a rare chance to be with your thoughts, undisturbed.
It's so much more than just a break from technology and the outside world. These saunas provide a unique heating experience - different from traditional dry and steam saunas that heat the air around you.
The infrared rays penetrate deep into your body to ease muscle tension, promote relaxation, and alleviate stress and anxiety. They can also help your body remove toxins and impurities. In addition, regular sessions provide pain relief, lower inflammation, and improve sleep quality.
So, sauna time is about you. But why stop there? Let's take your sauna experience to the next level with a few simple steps:
Mindfulness
The practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment. [1]
- Make sure you sit comfortably or stretch out where you prefer.
- Take a moment to breathe deeply and notice everything around you: the colors, sounds and smells.
- Imagine enjoying your favorite piece of chocolate and fully experiencing its taste, smell and texture.
Being mindful can elevate your sauna experience and cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquility.
Aromatherapy
Combine your sauna session with the scents of aromatherapy. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, sandalwood and bergamot are perfect for relaxation and stress reduction.
Lavender and chamomile soothe, while sandalwood and bergamot relieve stress and anxiety and promote tranquility. Inhaling these scents can deepen relaxation, making your sauna experience even more blissful.
For practical tips on how to use aromatherapy during your IR sauna session, click here.
Sound therapy
Indulge yourself even more in relaxation with sound therapy. Play soothing ambient sounds through the speakers to create a calming atmosphere.
Another option to deepen your relaxation is through binaural beats, known for inducing a meditative state and strengthening your connection with yourself and your environment.
For optimal effectiveness, consider using headphones (we'll get to this later), as these deliver separate frequencies to each ear, enhancing the immersive experience.
Breathing exercises
Discover the profound effects of breathwork in the sauna [2]. Try alternate-nostril breathing or synchronized breathing techniques to completely relax.
Meditation
Take your sauna session to the next level with a meditation exercise. This is not wicked science:
- Sit or lie down comfortably
- Close your eyes
- Focus your thoughts on this moment, in which you experience peace.
- Do your thoughts wander to other things that distract you?
- No problem. That's the idea: Thoughts come and go....
IR Sauna Tech Smart Solutions
Would you still like to take your phone or tablet into the infrared sauna? Then I have another question for you: which infrared sauna? After all, the home infrared sauna is not only available in a traditional cabin that you know in spas, gyms and studios.
The answer to this question goes two ways, starting with the type of infrared sauna. Next, we’ll review a few options to protect your mobile device and the use of wireless earbuds.
Infrared Sauna blankets and Personal Tents
When you're looking for the balance between staying connected and your sauna time, infrared sauna blankets and personal tents can offer a possible alternative to more traditional sauna setups.
Both sauna blankets and personal tents are designed with the user's comfort and convenience in mind, and often feature armholes that allow you to keep a mobile device away from infrared heat.
The difference between the two is that when you lie in the blanket, you have enough space to move your arms freely and hold your device. While sitting in the sauna tent it can be a little more difficult to keep your device in the right place.
Protecting Your Electronics in the Sauna
Whether you're using a public sauna — where taking phones into the room may not even be allowed— or enjoying the comfort of your own home infrared sauna cabin, you have several choices.
Heat-resistant covers, specially designed to protect your electronics against high temperatures, are available for phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
While these cases offer some level of protection, they may not completely insulate your devices from the heat. It is therefore wise to keep your device (with or without a case) out of the direct heat in the sauna.
When searching for heat-resistant covers, it's essential to prioritize quality over price. Look for well-known brands with a reputation for durability and reliability.
Check out materials made from silicone or similar durable materials known for their heat resistance. You can find these covers online through reputable retailers or electronics stores.
A Word on Wireless Earbuds
While they provide the ultimate hands-free experience, they also come with a unique challenge in the sauna. Like all other electronic devices, they are not made for the extreme heat of a sauna (not even infrared).
The stories on social media about the use of wireless earbuds vary. From success stories to a once-but-never-again.
Some tips for if you do want to embark on this adventure:
- When purchasing your earbuds, check whether they are resistant to heat and moisture (even though the IR sauna is dry, you may sweat).
- Short sessions certainly contribute to prevent overheating.
- Dry them thoroughly after your session and wait until they are really dry before charging.
- Another alternative is: As cheap as possible. If they were indeed defunct, it was worth a try.
The Best Infrared Sauna Blanket Reviews Of 2024
Summing up, using tech in the sauna boils down to what suits you best. Looking for a total escape from the digital buzz? Going tech-free might be your path to peace.
But if you prefer having your devices around, think of getting a heat-protective case for protection or look at infrared sauna blankets, PEMF mats and tents.
Whether you're leaning towards a complete digital detox or a more balanced approach, you've got choices to make your sauna time to your liking.
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Sam Everhart
References
1. Crystal Hoshaw, What is Mindfulness? Healthline, A Simple Practice for Greater Well-being, https://www.healthline.com/health/mind-body/what-is-mindfulness
2. Paige Fowler, Breathing Techniques for Stress Relief, WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-relief-breathing-techniques
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