Discover the Heart Health Benefits of RLW Cardio with Red Light Therapy
Here at Red Light Wellness (RLW), we joke that by buying a piece of our equipment, you are joining the ‘Vampire Club’ but now our jokes have merit according to a study published in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine which included a preclinical study of how an aging heart responds to near-infrared light. Investigators, Arany and Lakatta, of The National Institute on Aging spent five months observing mice in their middle stage of life with the goal of treating chronic heart disease with photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy.
The study noted improvement regarding elasticity and size of the heart – both indicators of future health risks if left untreated. The PBM treatments also mitigated the thickness of the cardiac wall. “As muscle thickens, it becomes stiffer, and the pumping action of the heart is less effective,” Arany says. Improvement in coordination was another extraordinary outcome, telling us that near-infrared light therapy is a viable option to repair nerve damage. I personally can tell you since doing RLW; I feel more sturdy on my feet. This study used an 850nm light sourced through an overhead LED for 10 minutes each week. After three months, the proteins responsible for regulating stem cell behavior were present in higher quantities among treated mice, the same proteins that repair cells and form new blood vessels. Nearly half of the mice not exposed to 850nm experienced heart failure as abnormal cells formed and cardiac dysfunction progressed, whereas all treated organisms survived the trial period. Results show that near-infrared light is an effective health supplement to restore cell function.
Read more on this study here.
The Science Behind RLW Cardio Benefits
We know the heart is kind of a big deal. So, how does RLW Cardio play into all this? Imagine supercharging your heart with light. It’s not magic; it’s science. When the light hits your body, it activates your mitochondria, those microscopic dynamos in your cells. These little powerhouses crank up your adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—the stuff your heart needs to function at its best.
But here’s where it gets even cooler. Red Light Therapy increases nitric oxide production, which means better blood flow, lower blood pressure, and improved overall cardiovascular function. It’s like giving your heart the tune-up it deserves.
RLW Therapy: What to Expect
Alright, let’s talk about what a typical RLW Therapy session looks like—no, we don’t make you sit in a sci-fi pod (although that would be cool). It’s actually pretty simple and low-maintenance. Here's how it works:
Preparation:
The beauty of RLW Therapy is that there’s hardly any prep involved. Just make sure your skin is clean—no heavy lotions, oils, or creams. We want that red light to do its job without any barriers. It’s like clearing the runway for your body to absorb all that rejuvenating goodness.
The Session:
You’ll be exposed to low-level wavelengths of red light for about 15-20 minutes. It’s non-invasive and painless. Most people describe it as warm and soothing—kind of like basking in the sun, but without the sunburn risk. During this time, that red light will be working its magic, stimulating your cells and giving your cardiovascular system the boost it needs.
Post-Therapy:
Here’s the thing—don’t expect to feel like Superman right after your session. The effects are subtle and cumulative. It’s like going to the gym; you don’t see abs after one workout, but with consistency, you’ll start to notice real changes. And the best part? No downtime. You can hop right back into your daily routine.
Consistency Is Key:
One session is great, but RLW Therapy really shines when it becomes a regular part of your routine. Think of it like any other health habit—you’ve got to stick with it to see the long-term benefits. Your heart is worth the commitment.
Real-Life Risks and Side Effects
Now, we pride ourselves on being upfront about everything, and RLW Therapy is no exception. While most people experience only positive results, it’s important to consider any potential risks and side effects. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Eye Safety: Ever stare at the sun? Yeah, don’t do that here either. Prolonged, direct exposure to red light can be harmful to your eyes. Always use the provided eye protection during your sessions, and you’ll be good to go.
Mild Skin Reactions: Some folks might notice slight skin irritation, like redness or a little itchiness, but these symptoms are usually temporary and tend to go away quickly.
Individual Variability: Not everyone responds the same way to therapy. While most people feel the benefits, some might not experience the expected results. It’s like how some people love spicy food and others don’t—everyone’s body is different.
Psychological Dependence: As awesome as RLW Therapy is, it’s important to use it as part of a holistic approach to health. Relying on it solely as a "fix" for everything could create a bit of a mental dependency. Balance is key.
Wrapping It Up
In the end, RLW Therapy is like a superhero for your heart, giving it the energy and support it needs to keep you thriving. Studies have shown that just a few sessions can help lower blood pressure by 10%—talk about impressive! So why not embrace this non-invasive, energy-boosting therapy and give your heart the care it deserves? After all, every heartbeat counts, and with RLW Therapy, you’re making sure each one is strong and steady.