Life & Travel
Autumn is here, and while many of us enjoy the cooler weather and seeing the leaves change colors, others struggle during this time of year. According to a 2019 Boston University article, 10 million Americans deal with SAD (seasonal affective disorder), a form of depression caused by the changing seasons.
Some of the symptoms include fatigue, decreased sex drive, feelings of hopelessness, trouble sleeping or oversleeping, and more. The article also reveals that women are four times more likely than men to experience SAD.
If you are one of the many people who suffer from SAD, there are many treatments, such as light therapy, which involves using light boxes and sitting in front of them for 30 minutes a day. Light boxes mimic bright sunlight indoors.
Another option is listening to soothing sounds. The experts at Vape Globe found research that shows how sounds of nature can improve a person’s mental well-being and more. Below is a list of the top five sounds found on YouTube based on views.
Thunderstorm
Thunderstorm, which is described as white noise, takes the top spot as it has 409 million YouTube views. Psychologist Dr. Rebekah Wanic explains why the sound of a thunderstorm can help your mental health.
“The booming sounds that punctuate the rainfall in thunderstorms are often somewhat predictable in recorded versions and may provide a sense of comfort in that hearing them from a safe place can help you feel protected and secure,” she says.
Rainfall
Rainfall is considered green noise as it's described as a constant mid-level frequency, creating a flat and steady sound. It trails behind Thunderstorm with 399 million YouTube views.
Fire Crackling
Fire crackling has 197 million YouTube views, and research has shown that watching a fire on a screen, accompanied by crackling fire sounds, can help reduce blood pressure.
Ocean Waves
Ocean waves have a mix of frequencies due to the different wave sizes. However, this sound can bring a sense of calm, which is no surprise why it has 151 million YouTube views.
Running Stream
The sound of a running stream is another example of white noise, as it can drown out surrounding noises. “Running streams and waterfalls follow the same type of pattern as rainfall and ocean waves, with regularity but enough change to be both calming and interesting,” says Dr. Wanic.
This sound has 43 million YouTube views.
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