Going to a sauna is supposed to be a very relaxing and detoxifying experience and that could not be more true at the Soulistic Studio & Spa in Chicago, Ill. The unique loft-like feeling of the space gets you into the tranquil mood to enjoy the services and benefits that the spa has to offer. From a fully-equipped Pilates room to more intimate yoga and massage spaces, the Soulistic Studio and Spa customizes an experience for groups as well as individuals to get the most out of their spa experience.

One of the main features of the Spa is the infrared sauna. Unlike a typical sauna experience, the infrared sauna uses Solocarbon™ technology with infrared light emissions. The sun releases this same energy naturally. Typical saunas use steam, which heats the air and then the user, but the infrared sauna heats the user directly by a process called conversion, releasing infrared radiant heat.

Some of the benefits of an infrared sauna include reducing disease-causing toxins, pulling heavy metals from the body and relieving stress. Nina Aranson, Soulistic’s Director of Fitness Operations, says that people use the sauna “to really open their pores and to help manage the symptoms of some very serious chronic diseases.” The beneficial effects of the sauna can also be used for the management of weight, fibromyalgia, arthritis, Candida and tissue injuries among others. The infrared rays knock toxins loose from fat cells in the body and then these toxins are released through sweating.

As you enter into the cabana-like sauna, the feeling of being on vacation is apparent immediately. The sauna can get up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit for the most hardcore sauna-goers or can linger around 146 for those starting out on their sauna journeys. The temperatures tend to be lower than regular steam saunas and thus allow people to stay in them longer and sweat more for optimal results. As minutes pass by, the radio in the background provides the needed distraction as the heat nurtures the body.

After about 20 minutes, the body begins to really take on the heat and the muscles begin to relax. Margaret Castrovillari, Soulistic’s Chief Executive and Financial Officer, says that sometimes it feels like “a heat compress for the muscles.” After a 30-minute session, the body really does feel rejuvenated. There is no fatigue but rather a newfound energy boost that lasts for the entire day. The detoxification process really clears the mind and lasts for days onward.

A single sauna session can accommodate up to two people. At Soulistic, a single session in the infrared sauna is $30, with a 10-session package special at $250; that’s a small price to pay for the benefits involved.