Did you know that the sounds of nature can help you sleep better? Numerous studies have proven that being outside or even just listening to natural sounds reduces stress, boosts mood, and makes it easier to sleep. Try animal sounds that speak to you or a mix of nature sounds that help you relax after a long day and drift off to a peaceful night of sleep.
Why Animal Sounds for Sleep?
It’s a well-established fact that time spent in nature is good for mental health. The research is overwhelming. Being outdoors or exposed to nature in other ways benefits mental health in several ways:
- Boosts mood
- Reduces stress
- Reduces fatigue
- Improves brain function
- Increases positive social interactions
- Reduces loneliness
- Improves sleep
Studies show that the sounds of nature, even when you can’t physically be outside, relax the mind and reduce stress. This effect promotes better sleep. According to one study, participants listening to nature sounds saw significant reductions in stress because it shifted their focus from internal to external thoughts.
Sleeping outside, or even opening the windows, isn’t practical most of the time. But you can still listen to recorded animal sounds to recreate the effect. Try these animal noises to relax, forget the day's stress, and sleep better.
Cicada Noise
The animal sounds that work best for you might vary by personal experience or mood on a particular day. If you’re craving the sound of a warm, late summer night, try cicada sounds. These omnipresent insects breed in bursts but are around every summer with a characteristic buzz.
Some people find the sound of a cicada harsh, but for those with happy childhood memories of sleeping with the window open in summer, it can be soothing and nostalgic.
The Sound of a Loon
If you grew up in the north near water or spent happy summer days camping outdoors, you know the sound of a loon. The haunting call of one loon to another is one of the most unique animal sounds. Use loon sounds along with the lapping noise of a lakeshore to create a perfect soothing blend.
Frog Noises
Frog sounds at night signal the start of spring and the end of winter. It’s a time of year that can make you feel more hopeful and excited to enjoy warmer weather. Use the sound of bullfrogs or spring peepers to trigger these feelings at any time of year. Mix it with a gentle wind sound and light rain to create a relaxing mood.
The Sound of a Sheep
Not everyone will find sheep sounds soothing, but if you grew up on a farm, it will take you out of your urban or suburban environment and relax you for sleep. Complement the characteristic farm sound with other noises from nature, like an owl’s hoot or grass rustling in the wind.
Getting good sleep is an effort for most people. Use all the tools at your disposal, from meditation to a warm drink to the gentle sounds of animals. BetterSleep has everything you need, including animal and nature sounds, to enjoy more restful sleep.
