This Is What Sauna Beds Really Are

The weighted blanket I bought last winter is flawless, save its hefty price tag (that set me back a few hundred dollars) and the space it takes to store. Handwoven by Parisian weavers, she blends into my chic decor perfectly and helps me snuggle in and find comfort in the coldest of days. And yet, it did not quite manage to put me in a deep slumber as I heard weighted blankets do. So, when I stumbled upon an article on ‘sauna bed’ in NY Times, I had to look into it instantly. “What wizardry is this?” I wondered. Surely all the rave on social media and claimed benefits are at the least exalted.

I had to find out for myself. I’m a sucker for shopping, and after doing all the diligent research I found a sauna bed or sauna blanket that looked just right - promised the quality and within my budget. I received my first sauna bed within days and here’s what I discovered.

What Are Sauna Beds?

Many people think sauna beds are just rebranded and re-hyped electric blankets. This is what I thought at first too. It’s NOT. Sauna blankets or sauna beds actually use the same infrared heat that’s used for treating chronic health problems like arthritis and blood pressure (among others). In essence, sauna beds are the same as the traditional infrared sauna that you’re used to in spa and wellness centers - but in a blanket form. Hence they’re also called sauna blankets.

You can tuck inside just like you would do inside a sleeping bag and it wraps around your body. And yes, it needs to be plugged into a power outlet. So, instead of sitting on a wooden bench, you’re lying comfortably, and warmly snuggling solo in your bed to wind down before drifting off. There’s nothing quite like it :) But that’s not all, there are other awesome perks and health benefits of an infrared sauna blanket too.

Benefits Of Using Sauna Blankets Or Beds

All over the media and internet, these new sauna beds are hailed as the next best cure-all remedy since mindfulness. While that’s not true (or yet to be proven), the health benefits that these beds provide are clear and proven. One cannot argue against the wellness aspect of sauna beds. They seemingly do everything we need in our hectic life, from vital detox to reducing inflammation and boosting mood. And that’s not all, there’s a lot more. But be careful of mindblowing claims that err.. to be honest, sounds a bit exaggerated. Scientific studies on the benefits of infrared saunas are still in their early days. However, there are potential benefits that are widely accepted.

There is some solid research on the infrared sauna that suggests regular use can lead to a healthier heart. The sauna works as a sweat-inducing therapy that can boost cardiac fitness. Another study on athletes indicates that sauna beds can aid faster muscle recovery after a workout. Further research-based evidence suggests that these sauna beds can also alleviate chronic pain like rheumatic arthritis. In fact, Lady Gaga went on Instagram to sing high praise for the infrared sauna, saying - “Maybe I should just share some of my personal remedies I've acquired over the past five years ….. When my body goes into a spasm one thing I find really helps is infrared sauna. I've invested in one. They come in a large box .. and even some like electric blankets! ”.

There you go! If you want the same sauna bed that I got, then this is the one.