Photo: renderings (in progress)
As we prepare to introduce our new infrared sauna at Red Moon, we’ve spent a lot of time thinking not just about the design of the space, but about how sauna use fits into a broader, evidence-based approach to health.
A thoughtful approach to sauna
There’s a lot of enthusiasm around saunas right now—and not all of it is grounded in science. Our goal is to offer something that feels both deeply restorative and aligned with what we actually know to be true.
Why sauna can be beneficial
A growing body of research supports several meaningful benefits of regular sauna use:
Cardiovascular support
Frequent sauna use has been associated with improved cardiovascular function, including better circulation and potential reductions in blood pressure. The gentle heat exposure can mimic some of the effects of light cardiovascular activity.
Muscle recovery and pain relief
Heat helps increase blood flow to muscles and joints, which can support recovery after exercise and reduce stiffness. Many people also find sauna helpful for managing chronic pain conditions.
Relaxation and nervous system regulation
Perhaps one of the most immediate benefits is the shift into a more relaxed state. The combination of heat, stillness, and time away from stimulation can help support parasympathetic (“rest and restore”) activity.
Immune support
Some evidence suggests that regular sauna use may be associated with improved immune response, though this area is still being studied.
Why we chose infrared
There are different types of saunas, and we chose infrared intentionally.
Infrared saunas use radiant heat to warm the body more directly, rather than simply heating the air around you. This allows for:
- A more comfortable experience at lower ambient temperatures
- Longer, more tolerable sessions for many people
- Better accessibility for those who feel overwhelmed by traditional high-heat saunas
We also prioritized:
- Low-VOC, non-toxic materials
- Even, consistent heat
- A spacious design that feels calm rather than confined
What sauna does not do (despite the hype)
There are also a number of claims that are commonly made about sauna use that are either overstated or not well-supported by evidence.
These include:
“Detoxification”
While you do sweat in a sauna, the body’s primary detoxification systems are the liver and kidneys. Sauna can support overall health, but it is not a primary detox pathway.
Significant weight loss
Any short-term weight change from sauna use is primarily due to fluid loss, not fat loss.
We believe it’s important to be honest about this—because the real benefits of sauna are meaningful on their own.
Who should not use a sauna (or should wait)
Sauna use is not appropriate for everyone in all situations.
In particular:
- Pregnancy: sauna use is generally not recommended—waiting until postpartum is safest
- Certain cardiovascular conditions: check with your provider
- Illness or dehydration: best to avoid until recovered
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to check with a healthcare provider.
How we think about sauna in our space
We don’t see sauna as a standalone “wellness hack.”
We see it as:
🤲 an extension of care
A way to:
- deepen the effects of massage and acupuncture
- create space for rest
- support recovery in a gentle, consistent way
And just as importantly:
🌙 a place to pause
What to expect
Our sauna will be:
- private (never shared with strangers)
- available for individuals or pairs
- designed with comfort, quiet, and recovery in mind
Sessions will include time in the sauna, as well as time to shower and reset.
Final thought
There’s a lot of noise in the wellness world.
Our goal is to offer something quieter, more grounded, and genuinely supportive—something that feels good and makes sense.
