Infrared Sauna vs. Traditional Sauna: The Boom of Saunas in the U.S.

Saunas have long been a pillar of European wellness culture, offering physical and mental benefits passed down through generations. Today, that tradition is booming in the U.S., with both traditional and infrared saunas making waves in wellness communities. At Sway Wellness Spa, we proudly offer an authentic traditional sauna experience inside our Remedy Room – a time-tested wellness practice that delivers powerful results.

What Makes a Traditional Sauna Special?

Traditional saunas heat the air using hot stones or a stove, creating a dry or steamy environment with temperatures reaching 190°F+. When water is added to the stones, humidity increases, intensifying the cleansing experience. This method has been used for centuries to encourage deep relaxation and detoxification.

Benefits of Traditional Saunas

  • Stress Relief: Reduces cortisol levels and relaxes tight muscles, promoting calm and balance.
  • Improved Circulation: Heat dilates blood vessels, enhancing oxygen and nutrient flow throughout the body.
  • Muscle Recovery: Eases soreness and speeds recovery after workouts through deep muscle relaxation.
Traditional Sauna

What About Infrared Saunas?

Infrared saunas are a modern innovation. Instead of heating the air, they use infrared light to directly warm your body at lower temperatures (120–150°F). Though still emerging in research, they're praised for their gentler heat and potential detoxification benefits.

Perceived Benefits of Infrared Saunas

  • Gentler Heat: Great for those who find traditional saunas too intense.
  • Potential Detoxification: May help release toxins at a cellular level.
  • Modern Appeal: Popular among tech-savvy users exploring new wellness tools.

Why Traditional Saunas Still Lead the Way

Traditional saunas offer a rich, ritualistic experience with time-proven results. Their high heat and customizable humidity levels provide deeper detox and a more immersive wellness experience. Backed by generations of cultural use and science, they remain the go-to for serious wellness seekers.

Why Choose Traditional?

  • Time-Tested: Trusted for centuries across cultures for physical and mental restoration.
  • Intense Detox: Deep, purifying sweat not easily matched by infrared alternatives.
  • Mind-Body Connection: Supports holistic wellness by harmonizing the physical and mental.

The Sauna Boom in the U.S.

As awareness of sauna benefits spreads, more Americans are turning to this ancient practice. Whether at boutique spas, gyms, or even at home, saunas are becoming a staple in wellness routines focused on stress relief, circulation, and recovery.

Experience the Best at Sway

At Sway, our traditional sauna offers a space to deeply relax, detox, and recharge. Whether you're a seasoned sauna enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this timeless experience is the perfect way to invest in your holistic health.