Infrared Sauna

Freeze & Float's infrared sauna sessions use far-infrared wavelengths to heat the body from within rather than simply warming the surrounding air. At lower ambient temperatures than traditional Finnish saunas, infrared heat penetrates muscle tissue more deeply, promoting circulation, supporting detoxification through perspiration, and encouraging muscular relaxation. Sessions run 45 minutes in a private cabin and are frequently combined with float therapy or cryotherapy for a complete wellness circuit.

Infrared sauna therapy at Freeze & Float Spa in Chicago differs from conventional sauna experiences in a fundamental way: rather than heating the air around the body to high temperatures, infrared saunas emit radiant heat at wavelengths (typically 3–100 micrometres) that are directly absorbed by body tissue. The result is a deeper, more penetrating warmth at cabin temperatures typically between 120°F and 150°F — considerably lower than the 180–200°F of traditional Finnish saunas — making the experience more tolerable for longer, more therapeutic sessions. At the cellular level, infrared exposure is associated with increased circulation, as blood vessels dilate in response to the thermal stimulus. Muscles warm and soften, reducing tension and post-exercise soreness. Perspiration is often more voluminous than in traditional saunas, which practitioners associate with elimination of metabolic byproducts through the skin. Some users report improvements in skin tone and texture with regular use, attributing this to increased collagen production stimulated by the wavelengths in the near-infrared range. Freeze & Float offers 45-minute infrared sauna sessions in private cabins at their 371 W Ontario Street location in River North. The private setting appeals to guests who want to combine the session with meditation, stretching, or audio programmes without ambient noise. Staff recommend hydrating before and after the session and can suggest sequencing it alongside cryotherapy (a contrast heat-cold circuit) or floatation therapy for a multi-modality wellness visit. Regular infrared sauna use has been explored in research contexts for potential benefits including cardiovascular conditioning, temporary pain relief in musculoskeletal conditions, and stress reduction via parasympathetic nervous system activation. Freeze & Float's River North location provides convenient access for Chicago Loop workers, North Side residents, and visitors staying in the Streeterville or Gold Coast hotel districts.