10 Reasons to Level Up Your Hot Yoga Practice in Our Far Infrared Heated Studio

Mar 25

Hot Yoga deep sweat detox health benefit

What if you could double-down on the health benefits of doing hot yoga in Far Infrared heat? Well you can!

Yoga Public’s hot yoga studio is equipped with Far Infrared ceiling panels. These panels gently radiate heat penetrating the skin, internalizing the heat and encouraging an intense sweat. We set the room at 38°C. Far Infrared heat is dry so there's no added humidity to acclimatize to as you engage in your hot yoga practice.

It's no secret that heat is good for you, think of the Turkish Hamam, the saunas in Amsterdam and Bikram Yoga in India. Practicing yoga in a heated room increases flexibility and stamina. It's believed to stimulate the release of human growth hormone which triggers the body to heal itself. The main difference between doing yoga in a hot room and doing yoga in Far Infrared heat is simple; with Far Infrared heat the warmth radiates all around the room penetrating everything it comes into contact without warming the air around you.

10 scientifically backed reasons how Far Infrared Hot Yoga is good for your health:

1) Far Infrared Hot Yoga for Flexibility, Mobility & Pain Relief

If you often feel tight, stiff, or sore, Far Infrared (FIR) heat may offer supportive relief. The deep, penetrating warmth helps muscles relax more quickly, allowing for increased flexibility and range of motion during your yoga practice. This warmth can also enhance muscle recovery after physical activity or everyday strain.

Research has shown that FIR heat may reduce inflammation and ease chronic pain—particularly in the muscles, joints, and even the lower back. Some studies have observed improvements in mobility and comfort among individuals with chronic musculoskeletal conditions when FIR was used consistently.

Practicing yoga in a Far Infrared-heated environment combines therapeutic heat with intentional movement, offering a powerful one-two punch for both pain relief and improved physical function.

2) Far Infrared Hot Yoga for Cardiovascular Support

Far Infrared (FIR) heat has been shown to support cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function and enhancing circulation. According to research cited by institutions like the Mayo Clinic and the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, FIR exposure can promote vasodilation—the widening of blood vessels—which may help lower blood pressure and improve overall vascular function.

Some studies also suggest that regular sessions in FIR environments may contribute to improved metabolic markers, including modest reductions in blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Additionally, enhanced blood flow and expanded capillary activity can support the body’s natural detoxification through lymphatic drainage, while encouraging the growth and repair of healthy immune system cells.

While these findings are promising, Far Infrared therapy should be viewed as a complementary practice within a broader wellness routine, rather than a replacement for medical treatment.

3) Heavy Metal Detox with Far Infrared Hot Yoga

Far Infrared heat may support the body's natural detoxification processes by stimulating a deep, sustained sweat that can help eliminate certain toxins, including heavy metals. Some studies have found that in individuals with high exposure, elements like arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury were excreted in higher concentrations through sweat than through urine. This suggests that induced sweating—particularly from infrared heat—may assist in reducing the body's burden of environmental toxins.

Repeated sessions in Far Infrared environments, such as saunas or hot yoga studios, have shown potential to normalize elevated mercury levels in small-scale studies. While more research is needed, FIR-induced sweating is being explored as a complementary wellness practice for individuals managing chronic inflammatory and autoimmune-related conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and Lyme disease.

It’s important to note that FIR should not be considered a standalone treatment, but rather a supportive tool within a broader health and wellness approach.

4) Far Infrared Hot Yoga and Immune Support

Far Infrared heat may support immune function by mimicking the effects of a mild, induced fever—a natural defense mechanism of the body. This temporary increase in core body temperature can help activate immune responses and may contribute to an increase in white blood cell and T-cell activity, which play key roles in identifying and fighting off pathogens.

Additionally, the gentle, penetrating warmth of FIR can help relax muscles, ease tension, and promote circulation—all of which support the body’s natural healing processes. While it’s not a cure or replacement for medical treatment, practicing yoga in Far Infrared heat may be a valuable part of a holistic approach to wellness.

5) Far Infrared Hot Yoga Promotes Healthy Skin

Far Infrared heat may offer benefits to the skin—the body’s largest organ—by stimulating circulation and increasing blood flow. This enhanced circulation can support greater oxygen and nutrient delivery to skin cells, contributing to a more vibrant appearance.

Additionally, early research suggests that Far Infrared exposure may activate fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. These proteins play a key role in maintaining skin structure, elasticity, and smoothness. Over time, this process may support improved skin texture and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines.

6) Far Infrared Hot Yoga: A Passive Boost to Wellness

Scientific studies have shown that passive heat exposure—such as in a Far Infrared (FIR) heated environment—can stimulate the production of heat shock proteins (HSPs). These proteins are also activated during physical exercise and are known to support cellular repair, reduce oxidative stress, and improve the body’s ability to cope with various physiological challenges.

While lying in heat is not a substitute for physical activity, FIR exposure may complement a healthy lifestyle by promoting some overlapping biological responses. Practicing yoga in a Far Infrared heated room combines movement with this therapeutic warmth, potentially enhancing flexibility, circulation, and overall recovery—making it a unique and supportive wellness experience.

7) Far Infrared Hot Yoga: Supportive Heat for a Healthier Body

Heat shock proteins triggered by Far Infrared exposure are known to help reduce inflammation and enhance cellular protection, supporting the body’s ability to cope with physical stress. Some studies suggest that regular exposure to Far Infrared heat may support therapeutic approaches to certain chronic conditions, including:

High blood pressure
Congestive heart failure
Type 2 diabetes
Rheumatoid arthritis
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Ankylosing spondylitis
Some forms of headache and cognitive decline

While FIR therapy is not a cure, and more research is needed, early studies are promising. Importantly, no significant adverse effects have been reported with appropriate use of Far Infrared heat in wellness settings.

8) Far Infrared Hot Yoga and Weight Management

A study conducted by researchers at Binghamton University found that participants who were exposed to Far Infrared heat at approximately 110°F (43°C) for 30 minutes, five times per week, experienced an average 4% reduction in body fat over eight weeks. Notably, this effect was observed when sessions occurred in the late afternoon (after 3 PM).

While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms, one hypothesis is that infrared heat may temporarily raise core body temperature and metabolism, promoting mild increases in caloric expenditure and detoxification. When combined with movement—such as yoga—these benefits may be enhanced, making Far Infrared Hot Yoga a supportive practice for individuals seeking to manage their weight as part of a healthy lifestyle.

9) Far Infrared Hot Yoga and Wound Healing

Research using animal models has explored the potential role of Far Infrared (FIR) heat in accelerating wound healing. In one study, rats exposed to FIR demonstrated significantly faster skin wound closure compared to those without FIR exposure. The study also noted increased skin blood flow, elevated skin temperature, and enhanced collagen regeneration—factors that support the body’s natural healing processes.

While these results are promising, it's important to note that findings in animal studies may not always directly translate to humans. Still, they offer intriguing insight into the regenerative potential of FIR heat, and how it may contribute to skin health and tissue repair in wellness contexts.

10) Far Infrared Hot Yoga and Mood Support

Far Infrared heat may play a role in enhancing mood by influencing the body’s production of serotonin—a neurotransmitter associated with emotional regulation and overall well-being. In a randomized clinical trial, participants exposed to a single session of whole-body hyperthermia at approximately 38.5°C (101.3°F) for 20 minutes experienced significant antidepressant effects compared to a placebo group. Remarkably, these mood improvements appeared within a week and persisted for up to six weeks after just one treatment.

At Yoga Public, we offer a wide variety of yoga styles—including Ashtanga, Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin—that can be practiced in our Far Infrared hot studios. The gentle, penetrating warmth of infrared heat not only enhances the physical benefits of your practice but also creates a deeply comforting environment. Whether you're seeking therapeutic support or simply want to feel good in your body and mind, hot yoga offers a powerful blend of physical and emotional uplift.

And let’s be honest—when you live through a Winnipeg winter, stepping into a room of radiant heat just feels like bliss. Our climate makes it especially attractive but you don’t need to be in the deep freeze of winter to appreciate the penetrating warmth and the benefits that come with it.

See you soon – in the hot room!

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Sources:

https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/japplphysiol.00811.2015

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2539004/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25748743/

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2521478

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00109-016-1389-0

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312275/

https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpregu.00525.2013

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26713568/

https://www.get-fitt.com/what_infrared_rays/research/far_infrared_for_wrinkles_and_skin_texture/