What in the World - Are saunas and cold plunges actually good for you?

Download Are saunas and cold plunges actually good for you?

Saunas and cold plunges are getting really popular and people say they can boost your mood and come with all sorts of health benefits. So we sent Hannah off to try them out and see what she thought…

In this episode we talk about why so many people are into saunas and cold plunges with Emilia Jansson, a BBC journalist and our resident Finn. Plus we’ll hear if there’s evidence that they’re actually good for you with James Gallagher, our Science and Health Correspondent.

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
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Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Emily Horler, Chelsea Coates and Ash Mohamed
Editor: Verity Wilde

Published on Thursday, 7th May 2026.

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