Listening to nature sounds, such as birdsong, reduces stress levels, but the sound of traffic increases them, new research shows.
The research supports anyone who firmly believes in the healing powers of a walk in the countryside or through the woods.
In one study, 68 volunteers listened to three three-minute soundscapes: a nature soundscape recorded at dawn in West Sussex, the same soundscape combined with 20 mile per hour traffic sounds, and the same soundscape with traffic sounds. 40 miles per hour.
General mood and anxiety were assessed before and after the soundscapes using self-report scales.
The study by scientists at the University of the West of England found that listening to a natural soundscape reduced self-reported levels of stress and anxiety and also helped restore a good mood after experiencing stress.
However, the mood-enhancing benefits associated with the natural soundscape were limited when traffic sounds were included.
The natural soundscape alone was associated with the lowest levels of stress and anxiety, with the highest levels reported after the soundscape that included 40 mile per hour traffic.
The research is consistent with previous research that has found that sounds, such as birdsong, can reduce blood pressure, heart and breathing rates, as well as self-reported stress and anxiety.
The study by scientists at the University of the West of England found that listening to a natural soundscape reduced self-reported levels of stress and anxiety, and also helped restore a good mood after experiencing stress.
The mood-enhancing benefits associated with the natural soundscape were limited when traffic sounds were included.
The authors conclude that reducing traffic speeds in urban areas could influence human health and well-being not only through its impacts on safety (reducing traffic deaths and injuries) but also through its effect on natural soundscapes.
The authors, writing in the scientific journal PLOS ONE, add: “Our study shows that listening to natural soundscapes can reduce stress and anxiety, and that anthropogenic sounds, such as traffic noise, can mask potential positive impacts.
“Therefore, reducing traffic speeds in cities is an important step towards more people experiencing the positive effects of nature on their health and well-being.”
They added that their research highlights the importance of green areas in cities large enough to protect users from traffic noise and suggested that electric vehicles should also reduce stress caused by noise pollution, as they are quieter than gasoline and diesel alternatives.