With all of the health trends that either begin or at least gain popularity around Southern California, it is often tough to keep up. People tend to be more active in this part of the country, and often these practices are geared towards those rehabilitating injuries, wanting to look better or simply wanting to be healthier. Kat Pytka, owner of iSweat Lodge in Bird Rock, caters to all walks of life.
At her cozy “spa” off La Jolla Boulevard, a client reclines in an infrared heat bag. The customer begins to wiggle a bit. Pytka casually grabs a bottle of water and brings it to him. “Starting to get warm?” Pytka asks jestfully. “I can always tell when clients are beginning to really sweat – they begin to squirm around.”
iSweat Lodge has operated in the area for nearly three months now and utilizes infrared radiation treatment (not as scary as it sounds) and vibration therapy to treat a myriad of ailments while detoxifying your body. From arthritis, high cholesterol, skin disorders, etc. to simply removing heavy metals from your body, Pytka highly recommends the forms of therapy offered at her business.
“Basically, this encompasses many areas of our lives that we wish to improve – health, wellness, fitness, and beauty,” said Pytka. “Once a client is interested, I always ask them ‘what are your goals?’ My friend, who introduced me to infrared treatment, was diabetic and having circulation issues. His doctor had suggested it to him about seven years ago, and it has helped him tremendously.”
While individuals may seek different treatments, Pytka encourages those who may have questions to consult with their own physician prior to any form of treatment. Although she states “I am definitely not a doctor,” her personal knowledge of these treatments is extensive.
“The treatments ultimately lead to rejuvenation, better sleep, an increased libido, and burns fat,” said Pytka. “Fat becomes water soluble at 43 degrees Celsius, and our infrared suits burn at 60 degrees Celsius. Typically, sessions are 50 to 60 minutes, during which one can burn between 1,500 and 1,800 calories.” Although it may seem uncomfortable to swaddle oneself in an infrared blanket, it actually seems quite the opposite. Each individual area consists of a bed and is supplanted with Beats headphones and Netflix. Pytka has seen plenty of return customers in her brief period – current and former athletes, moms in between errands, seniors with inflammation and plenty more. She believes that while it is nice to try out the treatments at least once, that, after the second time, one will experience the full range of results. Aiming to expand iSweat Lodge throughout San Diego, she seems torn between adding three new locations in either the Banker’s Hill, Hillcrest or Downtown areas to opening up in North County. Pytka offers her treatments for a cost well below competitors. She strongly believes in these benefits. iSweat Lodge is offering two treatments for $70, and monthly memberships (unlimited use) for $250.
