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”
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Traditional saunas heat the air; infrared transfers energy directly into your cells.
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Result: deep, gentle sweat that most people find enjoyable vs. “endure and bail” heat.
2) The Four Players: Far, Mid, Near (and Red)
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Far infrared (foundation): coolest wavelength; penetrates deepest; raises core temp, activates heat-shock proteins, supports whole-body benefits.
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Mid infrared: hotter; great for circulation, muscle recovery, metabolic support.
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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
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Sunlighten focuses on maximizing infrared absorption (think “bioavailability” for light).
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Programmed sessions (Detox, Heart, Pain Relief, Cardio, etc.) auto-optimize time + wavelength mix.
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Very low EMF design with shielding/cancellation so you get benefits without added exposure.
4) What People Notice First: Energy & Sleep
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Many users report more energy after sessions (vs. feeling “zapped” by traditional saunas).
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Better sleep quality and a noticeable mood lift are common early wins.
5) Evidence-Backed Areas Connie Watches Closely
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Cardiovascular support (heart health and circulation).
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Mental health & stress (depression/anxiety, relaxation).
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Skin rejuvenation and recovery.
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Ongoing research continues to clarify mechanisms and use-cases.
6) Getting Started: “Low & Slow”
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Begin with ~10 minutes, lower intensity; let your body acclimate.
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Hydrate before/during/after and replenish electrolytes.
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Build a routine you enjoy—consistency beats hero sessions.
7) Detox & Immune Notes (especially for thrivers/survivors)
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Far infrared supports core temp and heat-shock proteins; near/red support cellular energy.
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For detox, the Detox program makes it easy; towel off or shower after to avoid re-absorption.
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Always self-advocate and discuss with your care team if you’re in treatment.
8) Sauna vs. “Gym Sauna”
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Infrared = energy into cells → deep, comfortable sweat with post-session energy.
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Traditional hot rooms = hot air → many feel depleted afterward.
9) What’s Next: Contrast Therapy & Women-Specific Guidance
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Sunlighten recently added cold-plunge (Ice Barrel) assets to explore contrast therapy.
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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
Suggested Resources:
- mPulse Sauna Collection
- Solo Sauna System
- Research Articles
- Sunlighten’s Lotus Life Blog
- What is Infrared Light?
- Ice Barrel – cold plunge therapy





