Noise can be loud and disturbing, but for some of us, it’s what gets us to calm down after a hectic day. The type of noise that does this isn’t disruptive; instead, it’s calm and soothing.
It even works to relax your nervous system and improve the quality of your sleep. So, as opposed to having complete silence when you’re trying to relax, you might want to try the comfort of the five sounds below:
1. Water Sounds
Water sounds such as the light patter of raindrops, a gentle stream, or the flow of a waterfall are very calming. Listening to the crashing of ocean waves can have you feeling like you’re at the beach with your feet in the sand.
Science has proven that these sounds not only produce such a meditative experience but can also help block out other unwanted noises.
2. Sounds from Nature
If you’ve ever gone camping in the woods or your backyard under the stars, you can’t deny that the sounds of nature are healing to the soul. Whether it’s leaves of trees blowing in the wind, birds chirping at the crack of dawn, or the gentle hum of the breeze, sounds from the environment induce relaxation. They also help stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for deep and quality sleep.
3. Soft Music
Try music if you’re ever feeling stressed out and find it difficult to relax. It works like magic to get rid of tension. You can sing it, listen to it or play it. But if you’re trying to get a calm and meditative experience, listening to music is your best bet.
The song’s speed should be slow with a simple melody when using music to calm down. To this effect, classical music, slow jazz, choir, soft pop, or any other form of slow music are believed to be the most likely to aid relaxation. The calm vibrations of the song will quickly help calm your nerves.
4. ASMR Sounds
ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, and this sound as a form of relaxation is currently the rave. Studies have shown that ASMR promotes relaxation and contentment and reduces anxiety. This form of stress relief works by reducing the heart rate and increasing skin conductance which induces a feeling of euphoria.
ASMR sounds include whispering, blowing, scratching, writing, crinkling, humming, buzzing, ticking clocks, purring, typing, and tapping sounds. The response often starts as a tingling feeling from the scalp that spreads to your neck, spine, and sometimes, hands and feet. It’s almost as if someone is tracing a finger down your back.
5. White Noise
No, white noise doesn’t mean the sound is white like you’re thinking. Instead, it’s a combination of sounds mixed to create one consistent sound that can be heard across all frequencies. This is perfect if you’re the type of sleeper who wakes up at the slightest noise.
The consistency of the sound creates a masking effect that blocks any sudden changes in noise that can frustrate you while trying to sleep or relax. Some natural noises that could act as white noises include a humming air conditioner, a faulty television set with a static, or a whirring fan. However, you can simply go online to download a few white noises on your device.
