First Time in an Infrared & Red Light Sauna in Denver? Here’s What to Expect
If you’re searching for an infrared & red light sauna in Denver and wondering what your first visit will be like, you’re in the right place. Many guests come to Upswell curious about the benefits—and unsure of what to expect. This guide is designed to answer your questions and help you arrive feeling prepared, relaxed, and confident.
Whether you’re visiting after a workout, a long day at work, or simply looking for a calmer way to support your wellbeing, this is a helpful starting point.
What Is an Infrared & Red Light Sauna?
An infrared sauna uses light-based heat to warm the body from the inside out, rather than heating the air like a traditional steam sauna. This creates a gentler, more tolerable experience for many people.
Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light that may support circulation, muscle recovery, skin health, and nervous system regulation. When combined with infrared heat, the result is a deeply restorative session that supports both physical and mental recovery.
At Upswell, this experience is called Glow—a quiet session designed to help you feel better when you leave than when you arrived.
Why Infrared & Red Light Sauna Therapy Is Popular in Denver
Denver’s lifestyle comes with unique demands: high altitude, dry air, and an active culture built around running, skiing, cycling, hiking, and strength training. Many people seek out infrared sauna and red light therapy in Denver to support:
Muscle recovery and joint health
Circulation and warmth during colder months
Stress reduction and nervous system regulation
Improved sleep quality
Recovery from altitude and dry climate stress
Infrared heat is especially supportive at altitude, where circulation, hydration, and recovery can make a noticeable difference in how you feel day to day.
What Your First Infrared & Red Light Sauna Session Feels Like
Your first session at Upswell is semi-private (you’ll have your own sauna cabin in a communal room), calm, and intentionally simple.
Most first-time guests notice:
A gentle, penetrating warmth (not overwhelming heat)
A quiet, cocoon-like environment
Muscles softening within the first 10 minutes
Slower breathing and a sense of calm
Feeling relaxed, clear, and grounded afterward
You’re always in control. You can sit, lie down, stretch lightly, or simply rest.
What to Wear & What to Bring
We keep your visit easy:
Swimsuit or work out clothes required
Optional: slides or flip flops if you prefer not to walk barefoot
Bring a towel or we’ll have one available for you
Bring a water bottle (and be sure to hydrate before and after your session)
How Long Should a First Infrared Sauna Session Be?
For first-time visitors, we recommend:
20–30 minutes in the infrared & red light sauna
This allows your body to experience the benefits without overdoing it. Many guests gradually increase session length over time as their body adapts.
Common First-Time Infrared Sauna Questions
Will it be too hot?
Infrared heat feels different than steam—gentler and more gradual. You can always step out early if needed.
Will I sweat?
Most people do, but sweating isn’t the goal. Recovery and regulation are.
Do I need to shower after?
It’s optional. Some guests rinse; others head straight back into their day.
What if I’m unsure what to do?
Our team will walk you through everything before your session begins.
Enhancing Your Infrared & Red Light Sauna Experience
Many guests pair Glow with:
A Mobility Flow class for deep stretching and joint care
Revive (compression or PEMF) for physical recovery
A few quiet minutes afterward to let the benefits settle
If you’re unsure what to try next, our team is always happy to help guide you.
Infrared & Red Light Sauna in Denver at Upswell
Upswell offers infrared sauna and red light therapy in Denver, designed for recovery, calm, and longevity. Our studios are welcoming, unhurried spaces where taking care of yourself feels approachable and sustainable.
If this is your first visit, there’s no “right” way to do it.
Come in, slow down, and let your body respond.
That’s enough.
