Physical Health, Wellness |

Fitness Files: Shape House an Urban Sweat Lodge

When I heard about Shape House, the first and only urban sweat lodge, I knew I had to try it. Watch Netflix or nap for 55-minutes in an infrared blanket and get health benefits like burning calories and decreasing stress? Yes, please! I’m down for Netflix and sweat. Celebrities like Sophia Bush, Emma Roberts, Demi Moore, and Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian have all been spotted at Shape House. Selena Gomez liked it so much that she told Elle she bought an infrared blanket. If it’s good enough for celebrities, it’s good enough for me so I booked a session at the New York City location.

When I got to the sun-drenched studio, I filled out paperwork, changed into the cotton clothes they provided, and walked over to the curtained-off bed that would be my own personal sweat station for the next 55 minutes. The woman from the front desk swaddled me into the infrared blanket and gave me a remote so I could watch Netflix, Hulu, or listen to Pandora. She also gave me a big bottle of Kangen alkaline water, which balances your body’s acidity and provides faster hydration.

The infrared technology safely penetrates the skin to increase core body temperature and, according to their site, it results in an intense, detoxifying sweat that makes you feel healthier and happier. I instantly felt hot and sweaty but, as she warned me, my heart rate increased and I felt even hotter during the last 15 minutes. Luckily, she placed a lavender-scented cold towel on my forehead towards the end of the session.

After my session ended, she led me to the relaxation room and brought in a snack, tea, and more water. She recommended that I wait at least an hour before showering because you continue to sweat and release toxins. I happily snacked on salted nuts and orange slices while reading a good book and took a shower and changed after an hour.

I was curious about the benefits of the session and learned that it is helpful for weight loss — you burn between 800 and 1,600 calories — but there are other benefits. Sweating regularly boosts endorphins, releases toxins, alleviates migraines, boosts your immunity, increases your mood, and helps with stress relief, according to the site.

I felt relaxed, rejuvenated, and had glowing skin the rest of the day. I definitely want to Netflix and sweat more often.

Shape House provided me with a session. Thank you for having me, Shape House!

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