3 steps for the perfect at-home sauna session

Ready, set, sweat. Sweating is a natural way for our bodies to detox and without the process our bodies would overheat. Not to mention, it just feels so refreshing and cleansing. Saunas are the perfect place to sweat, especially infrared saunas.

“Unlike a traditional sauna, infrared saunas don’t heat the air around you. Instead, they use infrared lamps (that use electromagnetic radiation) to warm your body directly,” explains Healthline.

This type of heat penetrates the body even deeper than traditional saunas, making it a popular and effective way to sweat. Spending just 20 minutes in the sauna can leave you feeling relaxed, and refreshed. Here’s a look at my at-home sauna routine:

Essentials:

• HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

  $699 - save 15% with code ALLISWELL

• HigherDose Detox Drops

  $29 - save 15% with code ALLISWELL

• OSEA Plant-Based Body Brush

  $28 - save 10% with code ALLISWELL10

• Act+Acre Vitamin E Scalp Detox Oil

  $48 - save 20% with code ALLISWELL

Step one: Hydrate and set up your sauna station

I start with a glass of water with HigherDose Detox Drops. It helps to hydrate before hand and the drops are packed with magnesium, marine algae minerals, and chlorophyllin to help draw out toxins. I notice that I sweat more when I do this first, plus it’s also a good way to pass the time as the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket heats up (I crank it up to the highest heat setting).

For this blanket, you have to get in clothed — but, you can get the blanket insert as a way around that. I either set up my blanket on the bed or on the floor on top of my yoga mat. When laying on the floor I like to use my Still Point Inducer ($29+), known to relieve headaches and reduce stress.

Step two: Dry brushing and scalp detox

Before I get in the blanket, I use my OSEA Plant-Based Body Brush. Dry brushing helps wake up your senses and gets your lymphatic system moving, which is essential pre-sauna. To dry brush properly, move the brush upward toward the heart using firm strokes. When you get to your stomach, move the brush in a clockwise motion. I use my brush without oil, but if you want to use one then try OSEA’s Undaria Algae Body Oil ($84).

Next, I use the Act+Acre Vitamin E Scalp Detox Oil. It adds an extra level of detoxing since my head is left exposed in the blanket. It helps to break down oils and remove build up. You can leave it in for 20 minutes or even overnight.

Step three: Get in and relax

Now that you’re hydrated, prepped, and your blanket is hot and ready — it’s time to get in. While I’m in the blanket I like to play soft music (I really like this meditation playlist on Apple Music) and meditate. I stay in for at least 20 minutes (sometimes more). Once I’m done, I feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

Want to level up your sauna session? Try an eye pillow for extra relaxation. I like this lavender, silk eye pillow from B Yoga ($32, but use code MICHAELA15 to save 15%). You can also add red light with one of HOOGA’s red light therapy devices (starts at $159 and varies depending on what you choose, use code ALLISWELL12 for 12% off).

To finish, you can take a regular shower or try a cold one (or bath) for contrast therapy.

Enjoy your sweat sesh. <3