Relaxing sounds come in different “colors” with subtle but important distinctions.
| Health tips: Colors of sound | | | Dear Reader,
Gentle background sounds can be soothing and help drown out the noise of cars honking, dogs barking and even disruptive thoughts. Sound also can help mask tinnitus, the ringing, roaring or buzzing sound that some people experience in their ears.
”Sounds have no side effects,” says Gina Kelly, MT-BC, a music therapist at Mayo Clinic. “You can put a sound on, and if it doesn’t help you relax or focus, shut it off.”
Know your options Perhaps you’ve never thought of sounds this way, but relaxing sounds come in different “colors” with subtle but important distinctions: White noise uses high and low sounds at an equal intensity, such as the hum of an air conditioner or a fan. Some people find its hissing sound disruptive. So white noise is often used to cover up sounds in a noisy environment rather than for relaxation. Pink noise is lower and deeper. It’s often less distracting and more calming. Rainfall, wind and rustling leaves are examples of pink noise. It’s used to help people fall asleep and stay asleep. Brown noise has a low, deep quality that feels neutral. Think of a rushing waterfall or thunder. Brown noise is more calming and often used for relaxing and sleeping. Give it a try You can find background noise playlists on music streaming services. Try a few and see what works for you. You might find certain sounds better for working and others for sleeping.
If you’re ready to commit You can buy a sound machine at a retail store. Or pay for a premium account on a streaming service to keep ads from interrupting the vibe. |
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