The Benefits of Sauna —
Backed by Science, Felt by You
At Drift, sauna isn’t just about heat—it’s about slowing down, clearing your head, and letting your body recover. The science is strong, but the feeling is even better. Here’s what stepping into the warmth can do for you:
Cardiovascular Health
Saunas gently raise your heart rate, similar to light exercise, improving blood vessel function and overall circulation. Research has linked regular sauna use to improved heart health, lowered blood pressure, and even reduced risk of cardiovascular disease – a warm boost for your long-term wellbeing.
Muscle Recovery
Heat helps muscles relax, easing tension and reducing soreness after training or a long day on your feet. Increased blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles, speeding up the body’s natural recovery process.
Stress Reduction
Stepping into the sauna is like stepping away from the world for a while. The warmth calms your nervous system, lowers cortisol (your stress hormone), and leaves you feeling lighter, clearer, and more grounded.
Sleep Quality
The rise and gentle drop in body temperature after a sauna helps your system prepare for rest. Research suggests it can lead to deeper, more restorative sleep, leaving you refreshed the next day.
Hormone Release
Heat exposure encourages the release of endorphins – your natural “feel-good” chemicals – leaving you in a better mood post-session. It may also stimulate growth hormone, supporting muscle repair and overall vitality.
Immune Support
Regular sauna bathing may strengthen your immune system by boosting white blood cell production, helping your body fend off colds and infections more effectively.
Increased Circulation
The heat dilates blood vessels, improving circulation throughout your body. This means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to your organs, muscles, and skin – leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Relaxation & Pain Relief
Saunas are a haven for tight muscles, stiff joints, and everyday aches. Heat loosens tension, eases discomfort, and creates space for your body to fully relax – a simple but powerful way to reset.
"WHAT THE EXPERTS
SAY"
Dr Rhonda Patrick
“A 20-year Finnish study showed that men who used a sauna 4–7 times per week had up to a 50% lower risk of fatal cardiovascular events compared to those who only went once a week.”
Referenced by Dr. Rhonda Patrick, Found My Fitness Podcast (2017), citing research by Dr. Jari Laukkanen, University of Eastern Finland
Dr. Andrew Huberman
“Using a sauna in the late afternoon or evening can reduce cortisol levels and help set the stage for deeper, more restorative sleep.”
Dr. Andrew Huberman, Huberman Lab Podcast (2022)
Dr. Peter Attia
“Sauna accelerates recovery by improving circulation and reducing inflammatory markers post-exercise. It’s a simple tool with profound physiological effects.”
Dr. Peter Attia, AMA #48, The Drive Podcast (2024)