sunrays over the green hills

Where Infrared Comes From & How to Get Its Benefits Naturally

The Hidden Light

Most people first hear about infrared light through wellness devices or skincare trends — but far fewer realize that infrared has been here since the beginning of time. It’s in every sunrise, every warm patch of sunlight, every flame. And long before modern science named it, ancient cultures built their healing rituals around it.

So if you’re wondering:

  • Where does infrared light actually come from?
  • Can the sun give me the same benefits as an infrared device?
  • What’s the best time of day for natural infrared exposure?
  • How did ancient cultures use sunlight as medicine?

This guide answers all of it.

Where Infrared Light Comes From

Infrared light is part of the electromagnetic spectrum — the same family as visible light and UV rays. But unlike UV, infrared is non-damaging and deeply restorative.

1. The Sun

The biggest natural source of infrared. Around 40% of sunlight that reaches Earth is infrared, especially during sunrise and sunset.

2. Heat & Fire

Anything warm emits infrared — fire, heated stones, hot springs, even the human body.

3. Modern Infrared Devices

Today, wellness technology uses precise wavelengths (like 660nm and 850nm) to deliver concentrated therapeutic effects deeper into the tissues.

Can You Get Infrared Benefits from the Sun?

Yes — and the sun is the original infrared therapy device.

Sunlight can:

  • Boost mitochondrial energy
  • Improve skin healing
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Support mood and hormones
  • Improve circulation

But sunlight gives a broad mix of wavelengths — some beneficial, some not ideal. Modern devices isolate only the most therapeutic ones.

Best Times of Day for Natural Infrared Light

 Sunrise (The Golden Window)

High red and infrared, almost zero UV. Calms inflammation, regulates hormones, boosts mitochondrial energy.

 Sunset

Nearly identical benefits to sunrise. Signals the body to slow down and restores melatonin rhythm.

 Early Morning & Late Afternoon

Mild UV + strong infrared = healthy, balanced sunlight exposure.

 Avoid Midday for Infrared Purposes

Midday contains the least infrared relative to UV.

How Long Should You Expose Yourself?

  • 10–15 minutes at sunrise
  • Skin exposed (face, chest, stomach, or feet)
  • Repeat at sunset when possible

This alone can improve energy, sleep, mood, and inflammation.

Ancient Sun-Healing Traditions

Egyptians

Used sunrise and sunset chambers for healing.

Greeks

Created structured “heliotherapy clinics.”

Romans

Thermal baths and sun courts used heat and light therapeutically.

Native American Sweat Lodges

Heated stones emitted high infrared wavelengths, supporting detoxification and clarity.

Ayurveda

Sun rituals like Surya Namaskar and early-morning sun exposure supported vitality and digestion.

Sunlight vs. Modern Infrared Devices

Sunlight Gives You:

  • Full spectrum nourishment
  • Circadian alignment
  • Hormonal regulation
  • Emotional grounding

Devices Give You:

  • Precise, high-intensity wavelengths
  • Deep penetration into muscles and joints
  • Consistency (even on cloudy days)
  • No UV exposure

Think of it like nutrition:

Sunlight = whole food. Devices = targeted supplements.

If you want a precision-based at-home therapy option, explore the dual-wavelength device used for cellular repair here:

Maison Infrared™ Multi-Wavelength Red & Infrared Therapy Device

How to Combine Sunlight & Infrared for Maximum Results

  • Morning: Sunrise light + short infrared session
  • Midday: Light movement, avoid heavy UV
  • Evening: Sunset exposure + restful infrared treatment

Final Thoughts

Infrared therapy isn’t a trend; it’s a return to what the body understands. From ancient healers to modern science, the message is the same: your body heals when it receives the right light.

Whether it comes from sunrise, a warm fire, or a precision-built infrared device, light is one of the most powerful — and natural — medicines we have.

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