Overcome Seasonal Affective Disorder With These 5 Soothing Sounds

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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