Infrared Sauna Pods at Sweat Lounge, London: A Game-Changer in Wellness

In recent years, there has been a notable rise in sober culture and a growing focus on health and wellness, particularly in the renewed interest in saunas. Saunas have existed for thousands of years, originating in Finnish culture. Historically, they served not only as places for cleansing but also for giving birth, healing, and even spiritual rituals. According to the British Sauna Society, the number of Finnish-style saunas in the UK doubled between early 2023 and 2024, rising from 45 to 90, with projections suggesting this number could exceed 200 by 2025. Today, saunas are making a comeback as spaces for community building, an activity outside of drinking and improving our health and wellbeing. As people seek more in-person experiences that don't involve smartphones, saunas offer a unique and meaningful alternative. They provide numerous health benefits and are often a more affordable and restorative option than going to the pub. 

Have you heard of Infrared Sauna Pods? I hadn’t, until recently. That changed when I discovered Allison Huff, who is redefining wellness with her flagship infrared light therapy studio, Sweat Lounge, in Chiswick, London. I had the pleasure of experiencing her Infrared Sauna Pod first hand and now I understand why it’s being hailed as a game changer in the industry. 

As someone who regularly uses traditional saunas, I often find them a bit intense at times, sweating heavily can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, the infrared sauna pod offered a completely different experience. Using infrared heat within an enclosed pod, the warmth gently penetrated my body at a cellular level, creating a deep, therapeutic effect without the stifling heat of a conventional sauna. What really sets infrared sauna therapy apart is its ability to stimulate a deep tissue sweat, which supports detoxification, immune health, and even calorie burning, with some studies showing up to 600 calories burned per session. The pod raised my core body temperature gradually, helping my body release toxins stored deep within tissues. It felt restorative rather than exhausting. 

The spa itself had a calming, minimalist aesthetic that enhanced the sense of relaxation and it was clean and well maintained. The friendly and knowledgeable staff asked about my previous sauna experience and clearly explained how the infrared pod worked, which helped me feel completely at ease. My session lasted 30 minutes, just the right amount of time. What I appreciated most was the flexibility: if the heat felt too intense, I could simply lower the pod slightly or use the complimentary cold compress for a quick refresh. 

As someone who lifts heavy weights regularly, I noticed real benefits a few days later; my muscles felt less sore, and I had improved mobility. Infrared therapy is known to support pain relief, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation, all of which are key for recovery and performance. Even immediately after the session, I experienced a noticeable boost in mood, likely thanks to the increased serotonin and oxygenated blood flow. An added bonus? Improved skin health. Infrared light can help stimulate collagen production, and my skin felt softer and looked more refreshed after the session. There’s even an option to bring a friend and try the shared infrared sauna cabin, perfect for a relaxing, tech-free catch-up. Overall, it’s a fantastic alternative to the pub or gym recovery room, offering powerful health benefits in a beautifully curated space for rest and rejuvenation.

Whether you're a wellness enthusiast or simply looking for a new way to unwind, the infrared sauna experience at Sweat Lounge offers a powerful blend of science-backed health benefits and deep relaxation. I left feeling lighter, calmer, and more connected to my body, and I’ll definitely be returning. 

Check out the Sweat Lounge website and Instagram.

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Jamila Woodley is a freelance writer specialising in art, fashion, beauty, music, and interviews, both written and in person. Her work has been featured in Noctis Magazine, Public Offerings and other notable independent publications. Known for her vibrant social energy and passion for human connection, Jamila brings these qualities to her writing and interviews, creating compelling and authentic narratives. Her creative pursuits also include filmmaking, where she is showcasing her versatility as a storyteller. A passionate traveller, Jamila has explored the globe, driven by a desire to immerse herself in diverse cultures and connect with the people who bring them to life.