As the weather warms up, the idea of spending a session in a hot sauna may seem counterintuitive but it’s important to remember that infrared sauna sessions are equally beneficial in the summer months, especially during the silly season when we may need increased detoxification!
While it’s safe to enjoy a Sunlighten sauna in the warmer months, one thing that you musn’t forget is that you might need to increase your electrolytes to experience maximum benefits. Containing essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, sodium, magnesium chloride, hydrogen phosphate and hydrogen carbonate, electrolytes are essential for our survival. Here’s how to make the most of your infrared sauna experience when it’s warming up outside.
Electrolytes are minerals that have an electric charge and they are found naturally in blood, tissues, organs, and other bodily fluids. They support our body’s vital function, whilst aiding in muscle contraction, blood pressure, nerve signalling — helping us balance the amount of water in our body, maintain pH levels and helping to move nutrients in and out of cells.
Working hard to keep joints lubricated and maintain your energy levels, some of the key electrolytes that we should be looking to restore after a heavy sweat session include: sodium, calcium, potassium, chloride, phosphate, and magnesium.
During exercise or a sauna, your body loses fluid through sweat and heavy breathing, so replenishing lost water and electrolytes should be your first priority after you’ve finished your workout or sauna. These vital minerals will help your muscles contract and relax to avoid cramping, maintain body temperature, and help with any mineral deficiencies.
On a daily basis, water and a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables is sufficient to keep your electrolyte levels balanced. However, if you become dehydrated from a strenuous workout or a heavy sweat session, an electrolyte drink will help you rehydrate and replenish those life-giving electrolytes.
This summer, why not make your own delicious electrolyte tonics at home with some of our favourite recipes?
Fruity Fresh Cranberry-Pomegranate Electrolyte Drink
¼ tsp. salt
¼ cup pomegranate juice
¼ cup cranberry juice
1 ½ cups unsweetened coconut water
2 cups cold water
Directions: Mix ingredients together using a blender or pitcher and a whisk.
Chill and serve cold.
Lemon-Lime Electrolyte Drink
¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 cups of cold water
1/8 tsp. of salt
2 tablespoons of natural sugar or honey
Directions: Pour ingredients into a blender and blend until honey is dissolved.
Chill and serve cold.
Kickstart Your Day — Breakfast Blend Electrolyte Drink
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
2 cups of cold water
1/8 tsp. of salt
2 tablespoons of sugar or honey
Directions: Pour ingredients into a blender and mix until honey dissolves.
Chill and serve cold.
Delicious Strawberry Smoothie Electrolyte Drink
3 cups of coconut water
1 cup of strawberries
1 cup of cold water 1 cup of ice
1/8 tsp. of salt
2 tablespoons of natural sugar or honey
Directions: Place ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
Chill and serve cold.
Enjoy these tasty Summer recipes and experience the benefits of a good sweat as your body renews for the year ahead.
To learn more about Sunlighten’s range of Infrared Saunas and to keep updated on health benefits and wellness trends, subscribe to our YouTube and Spotify accounts or visit the Sunlighten blog.
