Research suggests familiar natural sounds may have measurable short-term mental health benefits.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
A recent study found that listening to one minute of familiar, local birdsong may improve mood and reduce stress more effectively than exposure to unfamiliar or urban sounds.
Researchers conducted the study with 200 participants, who were randomly assigned to listen to one-minute audio clips featuring native birds, exotic tropical birds, or urban noise. The findings, published April 24 in a peer-reviewed journal and reported by The Epoch Times, indicated that individuals exposed to local birdsong experienced stronger improvements in mood and reductions in stress compared to the other groups.
Mood changes were evaluated using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, while stress levels were assessed through both self-reported measures and salivary cortisol levels. According to the findings, participants who listened to local bird sounds demonstrated more favorable outcomes across both metrics.
The study builds on prior research suggesting that natural sounds are processed differently by the human brain than artificial noise. Earlier work has indicated that sounds such as birds and frogs may trigger calming responses, while the latest findings suggest that familiarity with a specific environment’s soundscape could enhance those effects.
Researchers said the results point to a potential link between familiar natural audio environments and psychological well-being. They suggested that recognizable sounds may evoke a sense of safety or positive memory, which could contribute to the observed benefits.
Independent experts have noted that the findings align with broader research on the health effects of nature exposure. Previous studies have reported that time spent in natural settings can lower stress hormones and support mental and physical health, even when exposure is indirect, such as listening to environmental sounds or viewing natural landscapes.
The authors of the study emphasized that limitations remain, including the relatively small sample size and the short duration of exposure. They said further research is needed to determine whether similar effects occur over longer periods and across different populations.
Despite those limitations, the researchers suggested that access to local nature sounds could offer a low-cost approach to supporting mental well-being, particularly for individuals who may have limited opportunities to spend time outdoors.