Down Dog or InfraRed Beds?

I say come to yoga in our hot infrared studio. But you will read about alternatives.

Several technologies provide infrared light treatments, ranging from therapeutic devices for home use to professional-grade equipment in clinics and wellness centers. These technologies vary in terms of wavelength, intensity, and purpose. Here’s a breakdown of the main options:


1. Infrared Saunas

  • Description: Infrared saunas use far-infrared (FIR) light to heat the body directly. Unlike traditional saunas, they don’t heat the air around you, making them more tolerable at lower temperatures (120-150°F).
  • Uses: Detoxification, relaxation, pain relief, improved circulation, and cardiovascular health.
  • Availability: Wellness centers, gyms, spas, or as home units.

2. Infrared Panels for Yoga Studios

  • Description: Infrared panels installed in yoga studios emit gentle heat and near/mid/far infrared light to create a warm, therapeutic environment for yoga practice.
  • Uses: Increased flexibility, improved circulation, enhanced recovery, and stress reduction.
  • Availability: Found in specialized yoga studios or available as panels for home use.

3. Near-Infrared (NIR) Light Therapy Devices

  • Description: Devices that emit near-infrared wavelengths (700–1200 nm), which penetrate deeply into tissues.
  • Uses: Pain relief, wound healing, muscle recovery, and skin rejuvenation.
  • Examples:
    • Handheld devices (e.g., Joovv, Mito Red Light)
    • Panels for full-body treatment
    • Targeted lamps for focused therapy

4. Red and Infrared Light Therapy Panels

  • Description: Panels emitting a combination of red light (visible) and near-infrared light (invisible) to deliver photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy.
  • Uses:
    • Skin health (collagen production, reducing wrinkles and scars)
    • Muscle recovery and reduced inflammation
    • Improved circulation and energy levels
  • Examples: Joovv, PlatinumLED, and Red Therapy Co. panels.

5. Infrared Heating Pads

  • Description: Portable pads with built-in infrared light to target localized areas.
  • Uses: Pain relief for back pain, muscle tension, or joint discomfort.
  • Examples: Therasage, Sunbeam heating pads.

6. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Devices

  • Description: Devices using concentrated beams of near-infrared light to target specific areas.
  • Uses:
    • Hair regrowth (e.g., laser caps for androgenic alopecia)
    • Pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects
    • Neuropathy treatment
  • Examples: iRestore for hair loss, Thor Laser for clinical use.

7. Infrared Body Wrap Systems

  • Description: Systems that wrap the body in infrared-emitting materials to deliver heat and light therapy.
  • Uses: Detoxification, weight loss, improved skin texture, and relaxation.
  • Examples: Formostar, FIT Bodywrap.

8. Infrared Therapy Beds

  • Description: Full-body beds equipped with infrared technology to provide a uniform and immersive therapy experience.
  • Uses: Pain management, stress reduction, and enhanced circulation.
  • Examples: SOQI Bed, Sunlighten Infrared Therapy Beds.

9. Infrared Facial Devices

  • Description: Handheld or mask-like devices designed for facial use, delivering near-infrared light.
  • Uses:
    • Stimulating collagen production
    • Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
    • Treating acne and inflammation
  • Examples: Omnilux, Celluma Pro.

10. Infrared Athletic Recovery Systems

  • Description: Infrared systems tailored for athletes, such as recovery boots or blankets incorporating near and mid-infrared light.
  • Uses: Accelerated muscle recovery, reduced soreness, and improved performance.
  • Examples: Normatec Recovery Boots with infrared integration.

11. Infrared Therapy Mats

  • Description: Mats embedded with crystals (e.g., jade, amethyst) that emit far-infrared light.
  • Uses: Pain relief, relaxation, and improved sleep.
  • Examples: Biomat, Healthy Wave Mat.

12. Clinical Infrared Systems

  • Description: Professional-grade infrared systems used in medical and physical therapy clinics.
  • Uses:
    • Managing chronic pain conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia
    • Rehabilitation post-injury
    • Promoting tissue repair and wound healing
  • Examples: TheraLight, NovoTHOR.

Choosing the Right Technology

  • For skin health and beauty: Choose infrared facials or therapy panels.
  • For pain relief and recovery: Try infrared saunas, heating pads, or LLLT devices.
  • For holistic health: Consider yoga studios with infrared panels or body wraps.

Consult your healthcare provider to ensure safety, especially if you have specific health conditions. Infrared light therapy offers a versatile, science-backed way to enhance your well-being.