Sauna Boom: A $1 Billion Industry Fueled by Wellness Trends

The global sauna industry is experiencing a remarkable surge, generating over $1 billion in annual revenue worldwide, with the United States contributing more than $206 million. This growth reflects a broader trend within the $2.1 trillion wellness market, signaling accelerated expansion in the coming years.

Ancient Roots, Modern Revival

Sweating practices have a long and rich history, embraced by nearly every culture throughout time – from Indigenous heat lodges to Turkish hammams and Finnish onsen. Historically, these rituals have served both ceremonial and physical betterment purposes.

The Rise of the Infrared Sauna

Amidst a wave of new brands vying to capture this market, infrared saunas are gaining traction. The Esquire team identified them as the most suitable option for modern consumers, citing their reduced complexity compared to traditional saunas, requiring less extensive plumbing and ventilation.

LIT Method: A Focus on Recovery and Longevity

Founded in 2015 by Justin and Taylor Norris, LIT Method initially focused on in-person fitness studios but has shifted its emphasis to recovery practices, particularly cold plunges and saunas. Their flagship product, the BeautyBox, combines medical-grade red-light-therapy and full-spectrum-infrared-heat.

Personal Recommendations from Justin Norris

Justin Norris, co-founder of LIT Method, recommends two key approaches. For skin rejuvenation, users should utilize the BeautyBox for 20-30 minutes at 130-150 degrees with red light therapy. For deeper recovery and sleep, he suggests switching to infrared heat for 15-20 minutes followed by a cold shower. The immediate experience proved deeply satisfying, offering a quiet and restorative escape during the winter months.