what is infrared light?
Infrared light is a type of radiant energy that lies just beyond the red end of the visible light spectrum, making it invisible to the naked eye. In practical terms, infrared light is the heat felt by humans when exposed to sunlight.
Infrared light therapy is a therapeutic technique that utilizes the power of the infrared light to improve overall health and well-being. It’s used to treat chronic or acute pain, but is also used for skin rejuvenation, cardiovascular health, detoxification, and general wellness.
The therapy works by emitting infrared light into the body, which is absorbed by the tissues and converted into heat energy. This heat energy stimulates blood flow, reduces pain and inflammation, and promotes the healing of damaged tissues.
Red vs. Infrared Light
Though often used interchangeably, there is a difference between red light and infrared light therapy. Red light therapy refers to the use of visible red light with a wavelength of 630-660 nanometers, while infrared light therapy refers to the use of invisible light with a wavelength longer than 700 nanometers.
Our sauna offers both.
Both red light therapy and infrared light have therapeutic benefits and can be used to help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and enhance healing. The deeper-penetrating infrared light is often considered more effective for treating deeper tissues, such as muscles and joints, while red light therapy is typically used for conditions affecting the skin and surface tissues.
As you can see, building up sweat is just the tip of the iceberg of what our infrared sauna can do. From boosting mood and immunity to supporting deep cellular repair, infrared light works its magic beneath the skin.
think of zen den as your own private oasis
A boutique spa experience where, for the time you’ve reserved, the *entire* space is yours.
Here, you can check your inhibitions at the door, and step into your very own sanctuary where you can find release; to rest and recharge and simply be you 🤍
Zen Den sets itself apart from other contrast therapy experiences in this way. Your experience is fully yours. you decide who enters the den with you—if anyone.
We’ll be offering drop-in passes, 5-session passes, and monthly memberships, so you can tailor your experience to your needs. Whether you wish to find your zen solo or bring a plus one, the choice is yours.
prime your immunity at zen den
As we push through the ironically fast-paced winter season, a time when nature slows down, the immune system naturally tends to take a hit as a result.
People often associate cold weather as the reason but cold exposure is actually so incredibly beneficial in promoting the production of white blood cells, which help fight off infection!
We’re happy to report that all of the services offered here at zen den support the immune system.
Cold Plunge + Contrast Therapy
Cold exposure reduces inflammatory markers, which helps prevent immune suppression caused by chronic inflammation.
Cold exposure stimulates an increase in white blood cells, essential for fighting infections.
Contrast therapy encourages the movement of blood & lymph, helping to flush out toxins and pathogens while delivering immune cells where they’re needed.
Cold therapy stimulates the release of norepinephrine, which has anti-inflammatory effects and boosts the immune system.
Red Light + Infrared Sauna
Infrared heat boosts blood flow, delivering immune cells and nutrients more efficiently throughout the body.
Red light therapy supports mitochondrial function, enhancing the energy production needed for cell repair and immune response.
Infrared heat stimulates heat shock proteins, which repair damaged proteins and improve cellular defenses against stress.
The calming effects of red light lower stress hormones and systemic inflammation, creating a more balance immune environment.
Sweating eliminates toxins, heavy metals, and environmental pollutants that can weaken the immune system.
Salt Chamber + Halotherapy
Salt particles help reduce mucus and inflammation in the respiratory tract, clearing airways and improving lung function. Healthy lungs are essential for optimal immune response.
Salt is naturally antimicrobial, reducing harmful bacteria and pathogens in the respiratory system.
Breathing in salt in a calming environment lowers stress, reducing cortisol levels, which can otherwise suppress immune function.
mastering cold plunging is all about the breathe
When it comes to mastering cold plunging it’s all about the breath.
When we first meet the cold, we may naturally hold our breath or breathe shallowly, yet our breath is our best tool to regulate our nervous system and mind through the intensity of the moment.
Initially, cold plunging activates the sympathetic nervous system, but by bringing your focus to your breath while your body adapts to the temperature, you begin to engage the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of calm and balance.
Why do we take the plunge to find calm?
increased vagus nerve activity, which supports stress resilience
lowered cortisol levels over time, reducing overall stress
release of endorphins, improving mood and creating a sense of well-being.
This wise and ancient practice essentially trains the nervous system to better handle stress, improving both physical and emotional regulation along with a whole host of other physiological benefits
Mastering your breath will help bring you into a state of calm- “the highest achievement of the self.”
Start practicing taking deep, mindful breaths throughout your day to help you prepare for the plunge!
Pre-plunge: use deep, consistent breaths to warm up the muscles in and around your rubcage.
Mid-plunge: inhale fully, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly to reduce heart rate and increase circulation.
Post-plunge: warm your body with several rapid breaths, followed by slow, deep breathing.
Maximizing your cold plunge benefits:
Ensure you’re immersing your entire body, including your shoulders, arms, and neck, to help stimulate the vagus nerve, which will help activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
When you lay still, you create a thermal layer. To avoid this and ensure you’re getting the most cold shock, move around.
Warm up naturally for a few minutes before moving into the hot plunge or sauna, this helps stimulate your metabolism.
take care of your mitochondrial health!
we all learned about them in first year biology - it may even be the main, if not only, thing we remember about them - “mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell!”
right??
literally one of the most in-our-face tips, drilled into and therefore engrained in us. so let’s dig into why:
nearly all 30 trillion cells in our adult human body have mitochondria
the “powerhouses” that produce energy
energy that promotes the healthy functioning of our cells
aiding in the collective health of the human body as a whole -
think brain cells, heart cells, skin cells, all. of. the. cells.
there’s a good number of ways to support your mitochondrial health and coincidentally every single modality offered at zen den is primed to support.
we care about your mitochondrial health!
here are a just a few ways our services support mitochondria:
infrared heat stimulates mitochondria by increasing circulation and therefore oxygen delivery- the very thing needed for cellular respiration and to sustain life.
red and near infrared light activate mitochondrial energy production meaning improved cellular repair, reduced inflammation and overall enhanced vitality (a win-win-win).
breathing in salt-enriched air improves oxygen absorption, further helping mitochondria to produce energy efficiently.
in cold exposure, mitochondria adapt to work more efficiently under stress, helping cells generate energy more effectively in the future.
and finally, alternating between cold and heat stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis—the process of creating new, healthy mitochondria.
the very basis to your wellness lies in your mitochondria.
support your powerhouses, pay attention to your mitochondria, find your zen.
salt chamber benefits
Salt therapy’s formal roots come out of 19th century Eastern European salt caves though its use can be traced back to ancient Greece and Egypt.
Our salt chamber is not only filled with natural pink Himalayan rock salt straight from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan, but also utilizes a halogenerator to disperse and circulate dry, aerosolized micro-particles of pure grade sodium chloride, penetrating deep into the lungs, bronchi, bronchioles and alveoli with every inhale, and those that aren’t ingested, fall onto the skin offering a slew of benefits to the largest organ of your body.
Salt therapy aids the respiratory system largely due to salt’s hygroscopic properties, meaning it attracts moisture.
Inhalation of salt particles helps to thin and clear mucus from airway passages, which can be particularly beneficial if you are dealing with sinus issues, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Regular halotherapy can help lessen the symptoms of various respiratory conditions, improving lung function and providing relief from persistent cough and bronchitis.
You skin can also receive benefits from salt therapy.
Known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, salt has been known to help improve skin issues such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
The micro-particles of salt can also combat rashes or flaky skin, leading to improvement in skin rigidity and the overall general appearance of your skin.
Salt therapy’s ability to help reduce inflammation and fight infection suggests that it can also play a role in boosting the immune system.
By inhaling salt particles, you’re helping your body to more effectively clear toxins and allergens, potentially preventing or alleviating respiratory infections and enhancing overall respiratory hygiene.
remember…you are an ecosystem
Remember... you are an ecosystem (literally). Primally interconnected and deeply attuned to nature’s rhythms.
Like the earth, you have seasons, and while winter months naturally call for slowing down, reflecting, and conserving energy, this quiet season is often overshadowed by the rush of holidays and seemingly endless demands.
Intentionally slowing down in our contrast therapy suite offers a way to honor your human ecosystem by mirroring and attuning to nature’s balance.
Alternating between cold water’s invigorating embrace and the warmth of our infrared sauna, we’re reminded that contrast and adaptation are essential for our vitality.
Just as nature thrives through cycles, so do we—when we work with our seasons, not against them.
Tend to yourself as you would the earth—rest, replenish, and honor the quiet work of growth beneath the surface.
good things come to those who sweat
Our infrared (FIR) sauna works by heating your body from the inside out, unlocking a multitude of powerful health benefits.
Far infrared light penetrates about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) below the skin surface.
This deeply penetrating heat raises your core body temperature, rather than just heating the surrounding air as traditional saunas do.
When FIR waves penetrate your skin, they cause the water molecules in your tissues to vibrate. This vibration generates heat at the cellular level, which helps to warm your body from the inside out while simultaneously stimulating heat shock proteins which play a role in repairing damaged cells.
With this increase in core temperature, the body responds with sweating, increased blood flow and cellular activity, resulting in detoxification, relaxation, and numerous other health benefits.
For example, this deep sweat response activates your body’s detox pathways helping you eliminate heavy metals, environmental toxins, and other metabolic waste through your skin.
Infrared heat increases your heart rate, simulating light cardiovascular exercise. This process strengthens your heart and improves cardiovascular endurance and heart rate variability over time.
As your blood vessels expand (vasodilation), circulation increases helping deliver oxygen rich blood and nutrients to your muscles and tissue, ultimately speeding up your body’s recovery process as well as rejuvenating your skin, reducing fine lines and inflammation, and promoting a radiant glow.
The increased oxygenation from improved circulation enhances mitochondrial activity, boosting your energy levels and improving cellular health.
Now that you know the science, are you ready to sweat smarter?
did you know… cold plunge edition!
Did you know…
Cold plunges can boost your immune system.
Regular exposure to cold water can help stimulate white blood cells, strengthening your body’s defenses.
Did you know…
Cold plunges help speed up muscle recovery.
Cold water exposure helps reduce inflammation and soreness, making cold a plunge perfect after a tough workout or dynamic yoga class.
Did you know…
Cold exposure can increase your metabolism.
The cold activates brown fat, which burns calories to keep you warm and can last for hours after cold exposure. Brown fat continues to burn calories even after you’ve warmed up as the body works to maintain core temperature.
Did you know…
Cold plunging can improve your mood.
The rush of endorphins released in cold water can help reduce stress and combat anxiety.
Did you know…
Cold plunging supports better circulation.
It gets your blood flowing, which can improve heart health and even skin tone.
Did you know…
Cold plunges can reduce stress levels.
Cold water exposure stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and resilience to stress.
Did you know…
Cold plunges can improve sleep quality.
Exposure to cold water can help balance melatonin, which aids in falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer.
Did you know…
Repetitive cold water exposure can enhance skin health.
It tightens pores and reduces puffiness, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Did you know…
Cold plunging sharpens mental focus.
The intense cold requires you to stay present, which can improve mental clarity and focus.
Did you know…
We’re incredibly excited to share the power of cold plunging with you!
Our cold plunge tub sits around 54 degrees farenheight making it cold enough to activate all these various physiological responses listed while not being so extreme that it becomes unbearable, making it a desirable temperature for reaping the benefits of cold water therapy safely.
sacred salt therapy
Each and every cell of your body contains this sacred mineral.
It serves a crucial role in the proper function of so many of our body systems from nerve and muscle function to nutrient transport across cell membranes.
Anyone who retreats to the sea (or gulf) for some salt water therapy can attest to its feel-good healing properties but did you know that breathing in salt particles is proven to improve respiratory health?
These practices go as far back as ancient Greece and Egypt but more recently, in the 19th century, the benefits of salt therapy were formally recognized in Eastern Europe when a physician noticed salt miners had significantly fewer respiratory issues than other workers.
Thus, spending time in salt caves became a common treatment for respiratory and even skin health.
At Zen Den, we’re thrilled to be able to bring this ancient therapy into a modern and accessible space while honoring its roots in centuries-old observations of salt’s proven healing potential.
Our salt chamber utilizes a halogenerator to disperse dry, aerosolized micro-particles of 99.9% pure grade sodium chloride into the chamber, penetrating deep into the lungs, bronchi, bronchioles and alveoli with every inhale, and those that aren’t ingested, fall onto the skin offering a slew of benefits to the largest organ of your body.
Stick around, we have so much more to share regarding this ancient ritual and it’s amazing benefits and are so excited to be one of the firsts on the MS Gulf Coast to offer this treatment.
infrared sauna benefits
While our sauna is just one of the elements that makes Zen Den special, it offers a whole host of benefits that extend far beyond relaxation—it’s a journey into holistic wellness.
To name but a few…
Muscle Recovery: Soothe sore muscles and relieve joint pain with deep-penetrating heat that helps you recover faster, feel lighter, and move freely.
Heart Health: Improved circulation and lower blood pressure—like a gentle workout that nurtures your cardiovascular wellness, infrared therapy boosts blood flow and supports your beautiful heart.
Deeper Sleep: Let the warmth melt away your stress and reduce cortisol levels, setting you up for deeper, more restful sleep.
Improved Immunity: Activate your body’s natural defenses with infrared heat by increasing your core temperature promoting resilience and vitality.
Skin Health: Infrared heat supports collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles for a youthful glow.
South Mississippi naturally gives “steam room” energy - come experience the relief the dry heat of a sauna provides with the added benefits of infrared technology!
cold water therapy
For millennia, cold water therapy has been revered across cultures for its ability to renew, heal, and strengthen.
In ancient Greece, cold baths were prescribed by Hippocrates himself to reduce inflammation and boost endurance.
The Romans perfected this ritual, alternating between hot and cold baths to invigorate the body and mind.
In Nordic and Scandinavian countries, the tradition of ice plunges after saunas remains a powerful way to build resilience, reduce muscle inflammation, and boost circulation.
Meanwhile, Japanese Misogi rituals—standing beneath cold waterfalls to purify body and spirit—honor the connection between nature and inner clarity.
Today, modern cold water therapy continues this legacy, helping to reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and cultivate a resilient mind.
Here at Zen Den, we thoughtfully carry forward these ancient practices, and invite you to connect with this powerful wellness ritual.
As the initial cold envelops you, the mind chatter begins to dissolve and wash away, allowing clarity to flow in.
This revered practice not only strengthens our physical resilience but also deepens our connection to our inner selves and thereby the world around us, as they inextricably connected.
If you’ve ever taken the plunge before, tell us what your favorite part of the process is!
If you’ve yet to experience cold water magic, tell us, what is holding you back?
you are the balance of mind, body, and soul
In the dance of life, each of these elements are intricately intertwined, each influencing the other in profound ways. When we nurture this triad as a whole, we unlock a deeper sense of self, purpose and well-being.
At Zen Den, we embrace the journey of holistic wellness through the power of the elements, because you, too, are nature.
Experience the invigorating benefits of contrast therapy with our hot and and cold plunge tubs, cellular level healing in our infrared sauna, and halotherapy from our Himalayan salt chamber- all thoughtfully designed to rejuvenate your body, calm the mind and elevate your spirit.
We can’t wait for you to discover this harmonious practice and find your zen with us!
welcome to zen den
A Sanctuary of Balance and Renewal part of the Mississippi Center for Yoga and Health located inside River Rock Yoga and Pilates.
Discover the invigorating blend of contrast therapy, where ancient traditions and innate wisdom meet contemporary wellness in an intimate, private setting. Our contrast therapy of hot and cold plunge tubs, soothing infrared sauna, and rejuvenating Himalayan salt chamber are designed to help you reset, recharge, and reconnect with your inner peace.
Breathe deep, relax fully, and immerse yourself in the perfect harmony of mind, body, and soul.
Coming soon... the first of it’s kind on the MS Gulf Coast, your journey to zen begins here.
Follow along for important updates and information and let us know which part of the cycle you’re most intrigued to try!
We can’t wait to share more!