High Cortisol And How Infrared Saunas Might Help

Cortisol is a vital hormone produced by your adrenal glands. In short bursts, it helps you respond to stress, regulate metabolism, and manage inflammation. But when cortisol remains elevated it can disrupt almost every system in the body, contributing to high blood pressure, weight gain, impaired immunity and more.

Recent research suggests that sauna routines combining heat and cooling may help reduce cortisol in regular users. One review of extreme thermal stress protocols found that habitual sauna users often show lower serum cortisol levels compared to non-users. Although trials of infrared saunas and cortisol remain limited, some observational evidence supports their potential. 

In broader context, sauna bathing is considered a hormetic stressor a mild, controlled challenge that may help improve resilience to stress and promote healthier regulation of systems like the HPA axis (which governs cortisol).

How to Use Infrared Sauna to Support Cortisol Balance

Here are practical, safe guidelines you and your readers can consider:

1. Begin gently. Start with 10–15 minute sessions, 2-4 times per week, and observe how your body and mood respond.

2. Be consistent. Regular use over weeks or months is more likely to elicit adaptation in stress metabolism.

3. Include cooldown and rest. A gradual cooldown (air, lukewarm shower) helps the body recover, rather than shock it.

4. Support lifestyle basics. Make sure sleep, nutrition, movement and stress-management practices are in place. Sauna is a complement, not a substitute.

5. Hydrate and replenish. Sweating leads to fluid and electrolyte loss, so replace what is lost.

6. Track trends. Note how you feel, your stress levels, sleep, mood, perhaps even periodic cortisol tests if you have access.

Infrared sauna should not be viewed as a standalone treatment for endocrine disorders (e.g. Cushing’s syndrome). Individual responses vary. If symptoms like fatigue, dizziness or hormonal imbalance persist, consult a medical professional. Much of the evidence is preliminary, mechanistic, or observational. More rigorous clinical studies are needed.

Chronically high cortisol is a real health concern, and emerging evidence suggests infrared sauna use may play a supportive role in helping regulate it via stress adaptation, activation of repair systems, and improved mood and resilience. While not a panacea, when used wisely and regularly, infrared therapy may become one of several lifestyle tools to help your body better manage stress.

If you are curious about how sauna can fit into your stress-management toolbox, visit our South West location or book a guided session. We would love to help you develop a safe, effective infrared sauna routine tailored to your goals.