There is no denying the fact that nature has an intrinsic quality that is calming and helps rejuvenate the soul.   Spending time outdoors, soaking in fresh air and sunshine has always been the mantra to make one feel relaxed and restored.  But did you know that the soundscapes of mother nature have a healing effect on the body? Yes, research now shows that natural sounds like the chirping of birds, the gurgle of a stream and the soft wave of oceans have a favourable effect on reducing stress, annoyance and even pain.

According to science, everything around and within us is in a state a vibration and constant motion. “From the smallest particles to the biggest planet, everything in the solar system is vibrating at a certain frequency. Everything around us impacts our body, mind, energy and consciousness. Research now tells us that the environment can increase or decrease our stress levels” says Advait Danke, Ayurvedic sound therapist and Project Director at BodhMarga Foundation and Wellness Vibe.  Also, as per the law of nature every living being works at a certain sound frequency vibration.

Therapeutic effects on the mind and body

Nature’s soundscapes have been linked with holistic wellbeing since time immemorial. “As per Ayurveda and Nada Yoga, nature sounds are categorized as Sattvic sounds. They cleanse the mind and body by flushing out toxins and stuck vibrations. Given that we are an intrinsic part of nature, our body and mind respond beautifully to these sounds; the feeling is akin to home coming” adds Advait Danke.

He also adds that sattvic sounds are those that have the qualities of purity, positivity, serenity, balance and peacefulness and include the rustling of leaves, sounds of the forests, oceans, waterfalls and even those of animals and insects. Studies show that nature’s sounds demonstrate several favourable effects on the body; right from reducing stress to improved cognitive abilities and the ability to focus better.

Thus, being close to nature and its sounds elevates one’s mood and the positive changes are also reflected in one’s creativity, outlook, relationships and the overall quality of life. Those who suffer from mental stress and anxiety get exceptional benefits from nature sound therapy.

Techniques galore
Apart from actual nature retreats, there are several ways nature sounds are induced in the field of therapy and healing. This includes rain shakers, tuned instruments and the use of digital sound therapy meditation protocols. There are multiple platforms and websites like Amazon, Flipkart etc that offer CDs of relaxing sounds like that of mountain streams, rolling waves, summer rain etc. In fact, you can also unwind with your Google nest or home speaker by tuning it to play a variety of ambient nature sounds.

A longer version of this article was originally published in the Deccan Chronicle.