Infrared, Not Just Heat: How Sunlighten Supercharges Healing with Connie Zack

Infrared Saunas for Detox, Energy & Sleep: Connie Zack on What Actually Works

Sunlight feels good for a reason. Co-founder and co-CEO of Sunlighten, Connie Zack, joins Ivelisse to unpack how different infrared wavelengths (far, mid, near + red) work with your cells to support detoxification, heart health, sleep, mood, skin, and recovery—and how to begin safely.

1) Infrared ≠ “Just Getting Hot”

  • Traditional saunas heat the air; infrared transfers energy directly into your cells.

  • Result: deep, gentle sweat that most people find enjoyable vs. “endure and bail” heat.

2) The Four Players: Far, Mid, Near (and Red)

  • Far infrared (foundation): coolest wavelength; penetrates deepest; raises core temp, activates heat-shock proteins, supports whole-body benefits.

  • Mid infrared: hotter; great for circulation, muscle recovery, metabolic support.

  • Near infrared & red light: delivered most efficiently via LEDs; supports mitochondria, skin (collagen/elastin), wound healing, and cellular energy.

3) Why Sunlighten? Absorption, Programs & Low EMF

  • Sunlighten focuses on maximizing infrared absorption (think “bioavailability” for light).

  • Programmed sessions (Detox, Heart, Pain Relief, Cardio, etc.) auto-optimize time + wavelength mix.

  • Very low EMF design with shielding/cancellation so you get benefits without added exposure.

4) What People Notice First: Energy & Sleep

  • Many users report more energy after sessions (vs. feeling “zapped” by traditional saunas).

  • Better sleep quality and a noticeable mood lift are common early wins.

5) Evidence-Backed Areas Connie Watches Closely

  • Cardiovascular support (heart health and circulation).

  • Mental health & stress (depression/anxiety, relaxation).

  • Skin rejuvenation and recovery.

  • Ongoing research continues to clarify mechanisms and use-cases.

6) Getting Started: “Low & Slow”

  • Begin with ~10 minutes, lower intensity; let your body acclimate.

  • Hydrate before/during/after and replenish electrolytes.

  • Build a routine you enjoy—consistency beats hero sessions.

7) Detox & Immune Notes (especially for thrivers/survivors)

  • Far infrared supports core temp and heat-shock proteins; near/red support cellular energy.

  • For detox, the Detox program makes it easy; towel off or shower after to avoid re-absorption.

  • Always self-advocate and discuss with your care team if you’re in treatment.

8) Sauna vs. “Gym Sauna”

  • Infrared = energy into cells → deep, comfortable sweat with post-session energy.

  • Traditional hot rooms = hot air → many feel depleted afterward.

9) What’s Next: Contrast Therapy & Women-Specific Guidance

  • Sunlighten recently added cold-plunge (Ice Barrel) assets to explore contrast therapy.

  • Expect practical protocols, especially for women, emphasizing effective temps/time (vs. extremes).


Want to try an infrared routine that fits your life? Listen to the full episode below with Connie Zack and grab our quick-start checklist in the show notes.

Learn more the Sunlighten Story here:  Sunlighten

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