Eight thermal pools (ranging from 45°F cold plunges to 104°F hot pools), a banya heated to 185–195°F, and a Tropical Sauna that hits 185°F with humidity that feels like 200°F. Day pass gets you access to all of it; add a 50-minute full-body massage ($180) or hammam scrub ($115) if you want. Recently expanded and still operating the rooftop pool when weather allows.
Observational cohort studies, particularly the Finnish sauna epidemiology work (Laukkanen et al.), show consistent associations between regular sauna use and reduced cardiovascular mortality, improved endothelial function, and lower all-cause mortality. Thermal immersion and sauna exposure have established mechanisms via heat-shock proteins and cardiovascular adaptation. The evidence is observational rather than RCT-level, but the consistency across large cohorts and dose-response relationships support a genuine benefit.
Heat exposure triggers heat-shock proteins (HSPs), activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) and mTOR signaling, improves endothelial function, and induces mild cardiovascular stress that may enhance cardiac adaptation. Sauna and thermal immersion also promote parasympathetic activation during recovery, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to muscles and organs.
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Observational
“IMPORTANCE: Sauna bathing is a health habit associated with better hemodynamic function; however, the association of sauna bathing with cardiovascular and all-cause mortality is not known.”
“OBJECTIVES: Elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality, whereas frequent sauna bathing reduces the risk.”
“Thermal bathing practices, including domestic hot-water immersion and sauna use, have been linked to cardiovascular and systemic health outcomes.”
“Empirical evidence suggests that heat exposure reduces food intake.”
No large RCTs randomizing people to sauna vs. control for years; most evidence is observational and subject to confounding (sauna users may exercise more, have higher socioeconomic status, or differ in other health behaviors). Acute cardiovascular stress from heat exposure poses risk for people with unstable angina, recent MI (myocardial infarction), or severe arrhythmias. Optimal frequency and duration remain unclear. Some studies conflate sauna with other wellness practices (cold plunges, social engagement), making attribution difficult.
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