By Eric A Thomas
Having the opportunity to sweat it all out can be beneficial for many of us. One Jacksonville couple is helping you to have a chance to do just that.
Kerris Osborn and her husband, Richie Frederick, have opened MELT, Infrared Sauna Studio, LLC. The business is located at 900 S. Main St., Suite A, in Jacksonville. MELT features two different two-person saunas. The benefits of a session in one of the saunas can include improved circulation, pain relief and mood-boosting. Infrared heat penetrates human tissue versus just heating the surface of the skin. Because of this, it is felt that these saunas are more beneficial than traditional steam saunas at detoxifying the body. MELT also has Sunlighten Saunas, which include two lights on the ceiling that provide “chromotherapy,” also known as light therapy.
“Folks come in to MELT to sit and relax in a private room featuring our Basswood [hypoallergenic] saunas,” remarked Osborn. Infrared heat is very gentle and has been compared to lying in the sun on a warm day. Traditional saunas can reach over 200 F, whereas infrared saunas only get between 100 and 150 F.
Currently, Osborn and Frederick operate MELT on Tuesdays from 9 a.m.-12:15 p.m.; Wednesdays from 4-6:15 p.m.; Thursdays from 3-6:15 p.m.; Fridays from 9 a.m.-12:15 p.m.; Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1:15 p.m.; and Sundays from 10 a.m.-1:15 p.m. They are closed on Mondays. The hours are by appointment only. “We anticipate summer hours will likely be tightened up a bit and winter hours will likely be extended,” Osborn added.
When booking an appointment, the customer needs to know they should drink plenty of water and get plenty of sleep the night before the session. This will help to not feel faint or become dehydrated during the session.
One of the most asked questions is about what to wear to the appointment. Undergarmets, swimsuits, tank tops and cotton shorts are all acceptable forms of clothing. “We do provide towels and bottled water,” concluded Osborn. “The infrared rays do penetrate through the towels and clothing. No goggles are needed; it is safe for the eyes.”
These sauna sessions are available for men and women. Anyone under 18 years of age must have parental permission — and the rule is strictly enforced. People with health concerns are encouraged to consult with a doctor for additional questions; the owners stress they are in no way, shape or form a part of the medical community.
Appointments can be made by calling or texting 217-491-0991, emailing meltjax@gmail.com or sending a message through their “MELT, Infrared Sauna Studio, LLC” Facebook page.
