A recent study at the Clinical Pathology Department of the National Institutes of Health showed lack of a balanced spectrum of light contributes to loss of muscle tone and strength. If certain wavelengths are missing in the light we receive, our bodies cannot fully absorb certain nutrients. Even with adequate nutrition, without exposure to sufficient light the body can be malnourished. Sunlight produces a metabolic effect in the body similar to physical training and exercise. It also stimulates the thyroid gland, increasing hormone levels, which translates into increased metabolism and potential weight loss.

  Infrared is light naturally produced by the sun. Far infrared light is of a longer wavelength than near- or mid-infrared. As part of the sun's invisible spectrum, far infrared light is a form of thermal energy, the warmth one feels when outside on a sunny day. Unlike ultraviolet light, which can cause skin damage, infrared is not harmful. In fact, far infrared heat therapy technologies, such as lamps, body bands, therapy garments and saunas are increasingly being utilized as treatment for relief of pain and physical ailments, as well as enhanced well-being.

  Far Infrared Heat Therapy (FIR) has shown to be beneficial in many ways, including loosening muscles and relaxing the body, thereby helping to diminish stress. It relieves pain by expanding blood vessels and increasing circulation. This allows more oxygen to reach injured areas of the body, helping reduce soreness and speed up the healing process. Many people have used FIR heat as a successful treatment for arthritis, rheumatism and muscle spasms.

  FIR can help control weight. Perspiring is part of the complex thermoregulatory process of the body that increases the heart rate, cardiac output, and metabolic rate. The process requires a large amount of energy and reduces excess moisture, salt and subcutaneous fat. It quickens the body’s process for sweating out fats and toxins.

  FIR helps eliminate toxins such as sodium, alcohol, nicotine, cholesterol, carcinogenic heavy metals (cadmium, lead, zinc, nickel) and mercury, which may accumulate in the body during daily life. The body eliminates most toxins naturally through sweat, but the process is sometimes too slow. This therapy stimulates the sweat glands that cleanse and detoxify the skin, simply speeding up the body’s natural process.

  The far infrared therapy technique can improve circulation, expel dirt and chemicals, and remove dead cells from the surface of the skin, all of which can lead to a softer, more firm complexion. It may also enhance skin tone and elasticity; clear acne, eczema, psoriasis; and remove roughness and cellulite. FIR penetrates deeply into the cells offering another option for health and optimal wellness.

Gina Dennehy is a holistic health practitioner and owner of Body Essentials Holistic Spa & Wellness Center, located at 18 Mill Plain Road in Danbury. For more information call 203.743.1132 or visit BodyEssentials.net.