You’ve likely heard the buzz about red light therapy, but have you learned about near infrared light too? This invisible part of the spectrum is also showing promise for wellness—and it may even surpass red light in certain ways. As research sheds more light on near infrared’s benefits, it could become a true game changer for natural health. Let’s dive into what the science says and how you can give this stealthy light therapy a try.
Similar to red light, near-infrared wavelengths between 700-1000 nanometers stimulate cell activity when absorbed by the body. But near infrared may penetrate deeper due to its longer wavelengths. Early animal research found near infrared turbocharged wound healing more than red light alone. A 2019 National Institutes of Health study on mouse tissues even reported near infrared worked where red light failed in boosting cell metabolism.
Scientists are now curious what else near infrared could illuminate compared to red light. Some speculate it may assist weight loss, restore hair growth and help regenerate cartilage or soothe arthritis pain better. If ongoing trials verify these hypotheses—look out, a lot more people may want to try this sneaky light therapy! Its invisibility from our eyes adds mystique too. So while research progresses, it’s piqued my interest that near infrared may become an even brighter game changer.
So far, near infrared is scoring wins similar to red light’s initial triumphs. Sports medicine has adopted near-infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to effectively speed athletes’ recovery times between injuries or workouts. One 2018 study reviewed 28 published trials showing near-infrared LED therapy safely accelerated wound and burn healing as well or better than other treatments. More studies applaud its help renewing skin elasticity.
Excitingly, researchers can now noninvasively measure increased blood flow in targeted areas after near infrared use. This shows it activates cellular metabolism as intended, boding well for conditions like arthritis where improved circulation provides relief. All around, near infrared’s early blows in clinical settings parallels red light’s rise, signaling this spectrum may become a healthcare standout in its own luminous way. Its growing real-world victories help justify enthusiasm, in my view.
Similar dosing protocols apply as red light – start with 5-10 minutes daily on each target area at proper wavelengths between 700-1000nm. Many commercial lights and beauty devices deliver near infrared LEDs for synergistic treatment along with red wavelengths. Some enthusiasts even report DIY panels do work, though I advise caution modifying devices without certification.
Always check dosage recommendations from manufactures too. While generally very gentle, higher power levels could induce thermal instead of photonic effects. It’s also wise consulting your doctor for specific medical issues before relying on any complementary therapy. Near infrared appears quite safe used as intended, but proper safety precautions allow reaping its wellness potential with peace of mind.
Much like red light’s cheerful effects, absorbing near infrared’s elevating energy could enhance mood and joy too. Its healing wavelengths may soothe away stress better than staring at any glowing screen. Early articles from Exercise and Sports Science Reviews even propose within five years we may take “near infrared light baths” as an accepted stress buster. Imagine unwinding under a cocoon of invisible wellness?!
New studies associate near infrared with boosted serotonin, our “happy chemical.” That serotonin link strengthens the case for it environ-mentally easing depression and seasonal affective disorder—a promising application. Overall, near infrared spa sessions carry potential mood-boosting benefits in a hygge-like pleasant way that inspires making self-care with light therapy a daily habit. Its cheerier attributes may complement its growing resume as an excellent healer.
Like any tool, maximizing near infrared’s wellness potential involves wise, strategic use tailored for goals. Want healthier skin? Try a targeted facial protocol. For muscle recovery, position lights near sore areas post-workout. Diabetics may enjoy its applications too – recent diabetic wound healing studies spark ideas. Near infrared LED socks could upgrade circulation while multitasking.
No matter your specific health picture, I believe incorporating regular full-body near infrared light sessions could up your wellness game over time. Changing the sheets on your bed or a blanket to an infrared-permeable material allows effortless irradiation downtime too. Be innovative yet safe, empowering this “secret” bandwidth to luminously support your greater vision of health and happiness. Its unseen forces could transform how vibrantly we thrive.
In conclusion, while always keeping an open yet discerning mindset, I’m quite enthusiastic about near infrared light therapy based on its early achievements. As gaining momentum, ongoing research may unveil even more advantages it holds ready to illuminate our well-being. Whether for beauty, exercise recovery, mood elevation or general preventative self-care, near infrared therapy provides a versatile natural tool. May we embrace its invisible frequencies to empower our whole-being health journey through commitment to wellness from the inside-out. Its waves may give new light to living brighter!
Harness the healing power of near infrared light therapy between 700-1000nm for pain relief, wound healing, mood boosts and more. This invisible part of the light spectrum may surpass red light therapy in effectiveness for health and self-care applications.