“I don’t know whether to conquer the world or hug a stranger”. These were the parting words of someone who had just experienced a 30-minute session of infrared light sauna therapy.
Reassuring words, as I was feeling somewhat grumpy having braved inclement British weather to experience infrared sauna technology at the Sweat Lounge in Chiswick – the only studio in London dedicated to this technology.
Infrared red light is naturally emitted by the sun, which is why everyone is happier on a sunny day. Unfortunately, it also emits harmful ultraviolet rays. Harnessing infrared technology as a feel-good therapy makes total sense, doesn’t it?
This light is scientifically proven to stimulate cellular energy production, help calm inflammation, ease anxiety, boost immunity, and support healthy, glowing skin by boosting collagen and elastin.
Unlike the traditional wet or dry sauna, infrared does not heat the air around you; the light waves penetrate deep into the body’s tissues and warm your body from its core – in other words, from the inside out. Ambient temperatures are lower than those of a traditional sauna, between 110°F and 135°F, making this a comfortably warm session, compared to the scorching temperatures of other saunas.
Sweat Lounge infrared sauna cabin.
In my private suite, I climbed into a pod, lay down on my back, face and neck remained outside, shuffled into comfort, and settled into thirty minutes cocooned in warmth and a cosy silence.
The Sweat Lounge is the brainchild of former tech executive Allison Huff-Ritchie. Like any other busy entrepreneur with young children and a hectic life, Allison was stressed. Lack of sleep, reeling from an agonising back injury during her second pregnancy and regularly working into the night, left her with high anxiety levels and, as is often the case, weight gain.
She discovered infrared sauna technology when she lived in Austin, Texas. While showing me around, she rhapsodised about how it improved her sleep, stamina, muscular pain – including the kind that you get after exercising – and, after choosing a healthier diet, contributed to her extraordinary weight loss (a whopping 4 stones). Exposure to infrared light therapy, she said, speeds up calorie burning.
Allison made it her mission to open a chain of studios in London; this is her first. She is quick to point out that this is not a replacement for a sensible lifestyle; it is something you include in the mix for a regular boost. A motivated, calm mindset is the cornerstone for making any lasting changes, and infrared light can help achieve those goals far more effectively.
After my 30-minute session ended, I had a slight but not unpleasant headiness. I found my mood had lifted and felt a deep sense of well-being. Slowly getting dressed, I peered at my image in the mirror and couldn’t help noticing that my skin was actually glowing.
When I got back to reception, Allison was waiting for me with a glass of water and a beaming smile. She looked lovely, and for some reason, I wanted to hug her.
Address: 48 Chiswick High Road, W4 1SZ
Website: sweatlounge.co.uk