Definition of Infrared
Infrared (IR) radiation is electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength longer than that of visible light, but shorter than that of microwave radiation. The name means "below red" (from the Latin infra, "below"), red being the color of visible light of longest wavelength. Infrared radiation spans three orders of magnitude and has wavelengths between approximately 750 nm and 1 mm.
Different regions in the infrared
IR is often subdivided into:
- near infrared NIR, IR-A DIN, 0.75–1.4 µm in wavelength, defined by the water absorption, and
commonly used in fiber optic telecommunication because of low attenuation losses in the SiO2
glass (silica) medium.
- short wavelength (shortwave) IR SWIR, IR-B DIN, 1.4–3 µm, water absorption increases
significantly at 1450 nm
- mid wavelength IR MWIR, IR-C DIN, also intermediate-IR (IIR), 3–8 µm
- long wavelength IR LWIR, IR-C DIN, 8–15 µm)
- far infrared FIR, 15–1000 µm
Far InfraRed Energy
The term Far-InfraRed refers to a specific segment of the light spectrum. InfraRed, meaning ‘below’ red, is a form of l ight/energy, which is invisible to the human eye. The InfraRed segment of the light spectrum is divided into three sections by wavelengths, which are measured in microns (a micron is 1/1,000,000 of a meter). The wavelengths of Near-InfraRed are .076 - 1.5 micron; the Middle-InfraRed range is 1.5 - 5.6 microns and Far-InfraRed (the longest of the InfraRed wavelengths) is 5.6 - 1,000 microns.
Most of the sun’s energy is in the InfraRed range. InfraRed is a form of radiant heat that heats objects directly without heating the surrounding air. People, plants and all living creatures naturally absorb and are warmed by InfraRed. Various objects and substances are also warmed by InfraRed. For example, the sand on a beach, which becomes uncomfortable to walk upon on a hot summer’s day. (InfraRed is not to be confused with UV (ultraviolet) which can burn and damage our skin). InfraRed direct heating ability is illustrated by our experience on a partly cloudy day. We feel warm when exposed to direct sunlight as our bodies absorb the InfraRed. When a cloud passes over the sun, we immediately feel cooler. This is not due to a drop in air temperature, but is caused by the cloud blocking the InfraRed from reaching us.
We live our lives continuously surrounded by and immersed in InfraRed energy for example, the earth absorbs InfraRed light and reflects it back to us. Our bodies produce Far-InfraRed heat at the cellular level, as we metabolize food for energy and internal body heat. We actually radiate Far-InfraRed energy, constantly sending and receiving it from each other.
Far-InfraRed waves, in the 8-14 micron range, are emitted from our palms. These emissions play a role in the ‘laying on of hands’ healing techniques, which have been practiced by different cultures throughout history.
The Far-InfraRed wavelengths between 4-14 microns have been called ‘the Vital Rays’ due to their important biological functions. Among other effects, these rays: boost our immune system; enhance blood flow by dilating blood vessels and stimulating cardio output; improve the flow of all body fluids by decreasing the size of water clusters; and exert a powerful detoxifying effect by releasing tissue-bound toxins.
Why InfraRed?
Far-Infrared health devices were first developed in China and Japan in the 1970's. Products such as Far-Infrared Stove, Far-Infrared lamps, saunas and body wraps have a long history of safe and beneficial use. Far-Infrared is a segment of the sun's light spectrum and is an energy which humans naturally absorb. This energy stimulates many of our biological systems and is truly essential to our well-being. Far-Infrared energy has been shown to enhance circulation, provide anti-inflammatory effects, boost our immune systems and induce a deeply detoxifying sweat. Far-Infrared emitters are even used in hospitals to warm premature babies.
When Far infrared rays penetrate the skin, they come into contact with protein, collagen and fats, By stimulating micro-vibrations far infra-red cause a thermal reaction which elevates tissue temperatures. The human body then reacts by dilating all the blood vessels regardless of size. Tissues are revitalized because of the improved (micro & macro) circulation.
It should be noted that an important principle of traditional Chinese medicine is that good blood circulation promotes good health. Conversely, an obstructed blood flow will increase the likelihood of disease and pain. Other ancient Asian therapies such as the Japanese "Palm Therapy" and China's "Qi GongTherapy" are also based on the premise that the human body itself, is capable of radiating Far Infrared rays.
Infra-red therapy has proven to be effective because its "hot rays" exhibit analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic capabilities.
Benefits of Infrared :
- Activates the water molecules in the body.
- Increases the level of oxygen in the cells
- Reduces swelling and pain
- Provides penetrating warmth
- Improves circulation
- Improves muscle tone and strength
- Increases energy levels
- Promotes regeneration and fast healing
- Improves the autonomic functions of the nervous system
- Reduces toxins & lactic acid build-up in the muscle tissue
- Reduces fatty acids in the tissues
- Reduces waste products from the cells
- Lightweight, comfortable and stays cool
- Prevents bacterial growth
- Reduces odors
- Can be worn 24 hours a day
- Washable and durable
- Cost effective
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