Ad / PR sample: This post is published in collaboration with Koanna
Some people book spinning classes and get their ‘high’ of endorphins that way, others just let sauna blankets make them sweat in 2021 – simply while comfortably lying down. I had already heard about sauna blankets about a year ago. I also knew infrared heat from various hot yoga classes I attended in Vancouver, so naturally I was very curious. That’s why I tested the Koanna Infrared Sauna Blanket to see if it lived up to the hype…after all, even Joe Rogan has said that he found his experience in a sauna to be ‘life-changing’.
Anyone with a stressful work life can certainly relate to the fact that it’s often hard to find the time to de-stress and relax. A visit to the sauna is often not only time-consuming, but (in times like these) also requires a lot of organising. That’s why I think the option of simply bringing a sauna into your own home is fabulous.
Please note: Before getting a sauna blanket, it is helpful to consult a doctor and find out about any contraindications. So, for example, if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, have heart problems or diseases and/or wear body implants. Also, if you’re experiencing issues with your circulatory system you should be careful with this.
INFRARED SAUNA BLANKETS ARE ALL THE RAGE
Yes, it’s no surprise: ever since many of us have been forced to bring wellness experiences into our homes – from pools to fully equipped home gyms – sales of infrared sauna blankets have also skyrocketed. Infrared sauna blankets are said to increase the body’s own heat, leading to improved calorie burn, detoxification, relaxation, reduction of pain and inflammatory processes, and improved recovery. They’re also said to improve immune function.
WHAT DO YOU WEAR IN AN INFRARED SAUNA BLANKET?
When using it, you should wear comfortable clothing and cover all areas that come in contact with the blanket to create a protective layer between your body and the heat. I wore activewear the first time (sports bra, leggings & socks) but now I just use the Koanna sauna blanket insert, which I would describe as a sort of ‘sleeping bag’ made of towel material. Afterwards, I just throw the insert in the washing machine and this spares me any tedious cleaning.
SETTING UP THE INFRARED SAUNA BLANKET
Setting up the sauna blanket is super easy. It comes folded up in a big bag and once you unpack it, all you have to do is connect the power and temperature controls to the connector on the bottom of the blanket. The sauna blanket has plenty of room for my height (I’m 172 cm tall) and taller people will certainly have no problem with this as well. I usually spread the sauna blanket out on the bed or sofa, put the insert in and wrap myself into it.
HOW DOES THE INFRARED SAUNA BLANKET FEEL?
At the beginning, I find lying in the sauna blanket simply pleasantly warm. Then, within a few minutes, I slowly notice that my body warms up more and more from the inside and I start to sweat. The warmth is relaxing and I feel like I can really switch off. After 40 minutes, the signal sounds and I free myself from the blanket, dripping in sweat, by opening the blanket and climbing out with the insert. I put the insert in the washing machine and treat myself to a cool shower. It feels like I’m jumping straight from the sauna into a cold pool at the spa. A large glass of water is a must afterwards to prevent dehydration. The instructions say to leave the blanket open for at least 30 minutes so it can cool down. When it feels completely cool, I roll the blanket back up and stow it in my bag. It’s even compact enough to slide under the bed, so it takes up absolutely no space. Big plus!
DO INFRARED SAUNA BLANKETS LIVE UP TO THE HYPE?
It’s easy to see why infrared sauna blankets have become a sought-after wellness tool. I feel like my overall well-being improves with regular use, giving my stress management a significant boost. ‘Sauna-ing’ at home also seem to have a positive effect on my skin. After using it I definitely feel very relaxed.
MY CONCLUSION
As someone who likes to use a wide variety of stress management tools, I see the Koanna Infrared Sauna Blanket as a real asset. Especially on stressful days and during the cold season, I am grateful for every relaxing feel-good moment. Since you can also use the blanket while you have Netflix or a podcast on, there really is absolutely no downside in my opinion. Yes, it’s definitely an investment – but after putting spa visits on hold for the foreseeable future, I think it’s worth every cent and I definitely wouldn’t want to miss this cool piece of tech.