When I started trying to heal from years of mold toxicity, I read a bunch of articles on near-infrared saunas. Yes, there is debate on which red light spectrum is best for what. Yes, it can be confusing. No, I am not a doctor. But after using my friend's NIR (near infrared) sauna for 6-7 weeks, I noticed a difference and set out to see what it would take for us to have our own.
Before I start, I want to encourage you to do your own research. I also am not an expert. What I am good at is research and diving deep into topics, but also, I knew I needed some help and just made the decision.
Below you will find what I used to build our sauna for a little over $300 (which depends on if you have some of the items at home or which bulbs you choose). You will also find some tips and tricks to help you get the most of your sauna.
This is not an exhaustive blog about it and I could definitely share more and answer questions, so feel free to comment and I may get to a more detailed blog later, but a lot of you have been asking for this info, so here you go.
Note: the links below are NOT affiliate links, so I make zero commission off your purchases.
Near infrared sauna DIY
If you don’t have a small space like a walk in 5x5 closet to use, you can use a grow tent. I researched canvas, different wooden saunas, etc, but this was the most cost effective way. This one is Mylar and doesn't off-gas.
Zazzy Grow Tent, 48"x48"x78" Growing Tents for Indoor Plant 600D Mylar Hydroponic Grow Tent High Reflective Growing Tent Room for Indoor Plant Fruit Flower Veg https://a.co/d/hapXuGH $73
Researching bulbs can take a while, but I decided on the RubyLux NIR-A Near Bulb Grade A (4) https://a.co/d/8p65Fbp $99 (just a heads up the seller bambles1234 is listed on the RubyLux website as a verified seller).
They are sometimes less expensive on their site https://rubyluxlights.com/collections/light-therapy-bulbs-us-canada-only/products/rubylux-near-infrared-bulb-grade-a?variant=17100109414518 $95
Other options are Therabulb, Sauna Space, and Philips NIR
Brooder lamps- get 4
Surge protector for 3300joules
Belkin Surge Protector Power Strip - 8 AC Multiple Plug Outlet & 12 ft Heavy Duty Extension Cord - Outlet Extender - Flat Plug Power Strip - Great for Home, Office & Computer Charging - 3,550 Joules https://a.co/d/hC48KR3 $29
Eye protection
FREEMASCOT IPL 200nm-2000nm Laser... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08B3DHWS4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share $16/pair.
I bought 2 so I can put my big girls in together for a few minutes a week. They are currently 5 and 7 and will only go in for 2-3 minutes with one bulb on vs all 4.
Shoe rack or 3 tier rolling cart for $25-$30
IRIS USA 5-Tier Shoe Rack for... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089Q2T5JG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Some people prefer a 5 foot tall shoe rack and to stand. I prefer sitting.
Other things to consider:
You could also add a bamboo mat or bamboo stool to sit on.
Tips:
•Start at 15 minutes and work your way up to 30 minutes. Depending on your toxin burden you may not be able to handle much at first.
•You want to rotate every 2-5 minutes because your blood will go towards the heat/lights and it will make you sweat more quickly. Also, you don’t just want the heat, you want each side to get the benefits of the lights.
•Dry brush before you get in, not while in since your lymphatic system slows down in heat
•You should be bare skinned in the sauna. Bring a towel to wipe sweat off, so you don’t cool off.
•You will also want to put a towel or something on your head to keep it from overheating. I use a microfiber shower cap.
•Goal once you start sweating, be in there 15 additional minutes (If you find yourself getting dizzy, shorten those 15 minutes down. For instance, I was sweating out too many toxins and my body couldn't get them out fast enough and it made me feel worse, so I simply shortened my time.)
•drink water before and after. Be sure to add micronutrients back in with salt like Redmond's, coconut water, and magnesium.
•slowly cool down after and then shower in cool water
•breathwork is a great way to pass the time
•Be sure to take a binder an hour or so before you get in. I use Cellcore Biotoxin Binder.
•My doctor said 4 times a week is a good number to work with now that I'm 3 months into healing. However, I started with 2 times a week for 2 months.
Again, this isn't exhaustive, or does it cover all the benefits of why to use a NIR sauna, but I hope this helps.
Great blogs to check out:
Happy Healing!