Before equipping spas, thalassotherapy centers and other Wellness centers, these technologies all have a scientific history. Photomodulation and infratherapy stem from research carried out by NASA on light in the 2000s, box oxygenation is a general public variation of hyperbaric medicine born 50 years ago, and neurorelaxation, which appeared in 2019, is based on research in neuroscience. All have since been tested (and approved) by certain high-level athletes. Thus, the Brazilian footballers of PSG indulge in hyperbaric oxygen and the cyclists of the 2023 women’s Tour de France have experienced neurorelaxation… We explain how these devices work and what we can expect from them.
Neurorelaxation, to learn to control your stress
The principle : this new concept, “Rebalance Impulse”, is a cognitive training which allows rebalance your nervous system. Lying comfortably, lulled by therapeutic lights and sounds, you are guided by a voice which invites you to practice mental imagery exercises and different types of breathing.
The promise : an increase in vitality and a reduction in stress, for a restoration of emotional balance: better concentration and memory, better sleep, strengthening of the immune system, etc.
Most : the NeuroFeedBack headset and bracelet allow real-time measurement of brain waves and heart rate variability.
The lessers : the monthly package of 10 sessions costs between €600 and €850 (depending on the center).
Our opinion : we appreciate the personalized assessment before starting one of the ten possible programs (sleep, memory & concentration, long Covid recovery, pain management, etc.), but rebalancing is expensive…
Where to recharge your batteries? [email protected]
Japanese sauna (or infratherapy) to detoxify
The principle : far infrared (waves from the invisible light spectrum) do not heat the air, but directly inside the body via water molecules. The body temperature rises significantly, which restarts blood circulation and promotes the elimination of toxins through perspiration.
The promise : “From 51° to 61°, the effect is gentle and relaxing with an action on sleep. From 61° to 71°, the sweating process is more important for a detox effect“, we mention at the Hendaye thalassotherapy center.
Most : a elimination of heavy metals via sweat was noted in a study published in 2012 (Genesis magazine).
The lessers : with temperature, heart rate increases. People with heart problems or high blood pressure should seek advice from their doctor.
Our opinion : you have the impression of eliminating in depth, because the first sweat is “thick” and you then sweat two to three times more than in a classic sauna. You need to remember to hydrate well before and after.
Where to sweat? All over France, in spas, gyms and dedicated centers. Session between €35 and €50
Photobiomodulation against pain
The principle : low energy light promotes cellular activity.
The promise : Exposure to this light has an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic and favorable action for cell regeneration because it restarts the production of collagen.
Most : the 360°, the only “whole body” photomodulation device, allows complete exposure to light, from the soles of the feet to the roots of the hair.
The lessers : some people less photosensitive than others will need more sessions to feel an improvement.
Our opinion : we appreciate the serious aspect of this technique, used in certain rheumatology centers, as well as in oncology, to fight against pain and inflammation and to improve the immune response.
Where to get the light? bioledtherapy.com. €60 per session, in a package of 10.
Hyperbaric oxygenation in a chamber against fatigue
The principle : seated or lying down in a box where we will increase the pressure (as for a dive to 3 or 4 meters), we wear a mask that delivers 97% oxygen. It’s the same principle as for oxygen therapy devices used in hospitals,”but the oxygen flow and pressure are lower, we therefore speak of moderate pressure oxygenation” underlines Dr Marion Culot*. This protocol allows oxygen to diffuse in greater quantities.
The promise : this super fuel acts on all tissues (skin, muscle, bone, cartilaginous etc.) and improves depressive stateslack of energy, intellectual concentration…
Most : guaranteed effect for athletes on performance and recovery.
The lessers : “in case of eardrum or sinus problems, it is better to abstain ” observes Dr Marion Culot. It can hurt! For people suffering from chronic illnesses, you should seek advice from your doctor.
Our opinion : There is excellent patient feedback (Gap polyclinic), on fatigue and long Covid with 4 to 5 sessions closely spaced (no more than 48 hours apart) then a weekly session for a month. And in 2022, researchers from Tel Aviv University also noted a significant improvement in neurocognitive functions and symptoms of long Covid.
Where to get some fresh air? Not everywhere yet because the concept is recent. You have to find out where you live. For example: OxyZen (Nîmes), Thalazur Cabourg, Le Frisson Salvateur (Lille), the Gap polyclinic)… From €30 to €60 per session.
* referring doctor for Thalazur in Cabourg
In small doses, stressors are beneficial
“Weakly exposed to certain stress factors, the body develops a positive response, which will then help it fight these same toxins, as soon as they appear at higher doses (hormetic effect). As it happens, it is the reaction of cells to a stressor such as heat, oxygen, or light which proves beneficial.“
Thanks to Gérard Redziniack, graduate in molecular biophysicochemistry, is a consultant in skin biology.
Read also :
Light therapy: how to use it to boost your morale?
Oxygen: a 100% natural medicine
Sensory isolation: what is this method that puts our 5 senses at rest?