The Sound of Nature Helps Us Relax

The gentle burbling of a brook, or the sound of the wind in the trees can physically change our mind and bodily systems, helping us to relax. New research explains how, for the first time.

Researchers at Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) found that playing ‘natural sounds' affected the bodily systems that control the flight-or-fright and rest-digest autonomic nervous systems, with associated effects in the resting activity of the brain. While naturalistic sounds and ‘green' environments have frequently been linked with promoting relaxation and wellbeing, until now there has been no scientific consensus as to how these effects come about. The study has been published in Scientific Reports.

Researchers found that being in nature reduces feelings of isolation, promoted calm, and lifted mood among patients.

The lead author, Dr Cassandra Gould van Praag said, “We are all familiar with the feeling of relaxation and ‘switching-off' which comes from a walk in the countryside, and now we have evidence from the brain and the body which helps us understand this effect. This has been an exciting collaboration between artists and scientists, and it has produced results which may have a real-world impact, particularly for people who are experiencing high levels of stress.”

In collaboration with audio visual artist Mark Ware, the team at BSMS conducted an experiment where participants listened to sounds recorded from natural and artificial environments, while their brain activity was measured in an MRI scanner, and their autonomic nervous system activity was monitored via minute changes in heart rate. The team found that activity in the default mode network of the brain (a collection of areas which are active when we are resting) was different depending on the sounds playing in the background:

When listening to natural sounds, the brain connectivity reflected an outward-directed focus of attention; when listening to artificial sounds, the brain connectivity reflected an inward-directed focus of attention, similar to states observed in anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. There was also an increase in rest-digest nervous system activity (associated with relaxation of the body) when listening to natural compared with artificial sounds, and better performance in an external attentional monitoring task.

Interestingly, the amount of change in nervous system activity was dependent on the participants' baseline state: Individuals who showed evidence of the greatest stress before starting the experiment showed the greatest bodily relaxation when listening to natural sounds, while those who were already relaxed in the brain scanner environment showed a slight increase in stress when listening to natural compared with artificial sounds.

The study of environmental exposure effects is of growing interest in physical and mental health settings, and greatly influences issues of public health and town planning. This research is first to present an integrated behavioral, physiological and brain exploration of this topic.

Artist Mark Ware commented, “Art-science collaborations can be problematic, often due to a lack of shared knowledge and language (scientific and artistic), but the team at BSMS has generously sought common ground, which has resulted in this exciting and successful outcome. We have plans to continue collaborating and I am keen to explore how the results of this work might be applied to the creation and understanding of time-based art (installations, multimedia performance, and film) for the benefit of people in terms of wellbeing and health.”

Story Source: Materials provided by University of Sussex.

The post The Sound of Nature Helps Us Relax appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get more information on holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine is an approach to health care that focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on one part of the body. Holistic medicine takes into account all aspects of a patient’s life, including his or her spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being.

The goal of holistic medicine is to treat the whole person instead of treating individual symptoms. Holistic medicine does not focus on treating the disease, but rather on healing.

Holistic medicine includes preventive measures such as exercise and nutrition and treatments for chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes.

There are many forms of holistic medicine.

Acupuncture
Aromatherapy
Ayurveda
Chiropractic medicine
Homeopathy
Herbalism
Naturopathy
Nutrition
Osteopathic medicine
Vedic medicine
Yoga

Is holistic medicine legal?

Yes and no. Yes. There are many medications that have been proven to be effective against various conditions. They can't treat all conditions. It all depends what you mean “holistic.” If it means taking into account all aspects of an individual's health, then yes, but if it just means using natural remedies over chemical ones then no.

Many people believe holistic medicine has existed since ancient times. This is simply not true. Although some healers in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome used natural remedies, they did so without scientific knowledge.

The Middle Ages was the first time that medical professionals began to study anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. The majority of Western countries had built public hospitals by the 19th century that allowed trained doctors to offer medical care.

Conventional medicine is today the dominant type of healthcare. However, many people still prefer to use complementary and alternative medicine. Many people find that it is more beneficial than taking pharmaceutical drugs.

Some people are more comfortable receiving massage therapy than taking tranquilizers. Some prefer to eat healthy food over taking prescription medication. Others find that exercise is essential for peak performance.

Why would people with cancer choose to use other methods?

Cancer patients face many difficulties as they try to cope with their illness. They may have lost all hope or feel helpless as there is nothing they can do. Some symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headaches, weight loss, and fatigue.

A majority of conventional treatments are ineffective against cancer cells. Therefore, cancer patients seek other therapies, such as complementary medicine. A majority of cancer patients will use alternative medications at least once during treatment according to research.

Patients with cancer may choose to receive complementary medicine rather than chemotherapy. They believe that it is easier to manage side effects. They may also prefer it as it costs less.

There are also other reasons.

Some patients believe natural remedies can prevent a recurrence.

Many people believe that natural remedies could improve the quality and quantity of their lives.

Others believe natural remedies can help reduce your risk of getting again cancer.

Natural remedies are first-line therapy for those who are concerned about side effects from chemotherapy.

Is holistic medicine safe?

Holistic medicines can be safe as they don't contain harmful drugs and are natural remedies that people have used for centuries.

They have been proven to be effective in treating many diseases, including asthma, arthritis, chronic pain, diabetes, high blood sugar, heart disease and obesity, as well as anxiety, stress.

Millions of people all over the globe are using holistic medicine to treat various types of illnesses. They include homeopathy. Chiropractic care, herbal therapies, massage therapy. yoga. meditation. Biofeedback. These therapies address the whole person instead of just the symptoms.

Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Is it Evidence-based

Although the evidence base for alternative and complementary medicine is still in flux, there are many reasons people choose them. You might have tried traditional treatments and found them ineffective. Or you may be looking for an alternative treatment because it has more benefits than conventional care. As part of a holistic approach, they might look for complementary and alternate medicines. It is important for patients to verify that any alternative or complementary medicines they are using have been supported by scientific research. If you're unsure whether a particular treatment is effective, ask your doctor or pharmacist. It could save you money and time in the long run.

What are the benefits of holistic medicine over conventional medicine?

Many religions and cultures around the world have used holistic medicines for thousands of years. They were based on ancient wisdom and experience.

These medicines are safe, efficient, natural, and inexpensive. Side effects are less common than with prescription drugs.

They also help you achieve better health and wellness.

They can protect you from disease and improve your overall wellbeing.

They could even be used to treat heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, asthma and depression.

There are hundreds upon hundreds of traditional medicines around the world, each offering unique benefits.

According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people rely on traditional treatments for injury or illness.

It has been reported that around half a trillion people rely on traditional herbs for their primary health care.

The market for complementary therapies worldwide is estimated to be $22.2 million by 2020.

To avoid side effects from conventional treatments, people are turning to alternative methods of medical care.

If they don't respond to any other treatment options, many people look to complementary therapies. They might also consider them before considering surgery or medication.

There are many good reasons to choose complementary therapies.

To improve the quality of your life
To reduce stress levels
For relaxation
To ease pain
To enhance immunity
Support for those with serious illnesses
To boost energy
To control weight
To maintain good nutrition
To improve sleep patterns
To deal with chronic conditions

Statistics

According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

What are you looking for in a qualified holistic practitioner?

How do you find a holistic doctor?

Specialists are the best doctors. We are referring to holistic medicine in this instance. This means that doctors must learn how to treat their patients holistically. You should be able to explain your holistic health to them and why you would like to see a holistic physician.

Doctors should not only be knowledgeable about holistic health but also have an understanding of alternative and complementary therapies (CAM), such acupuncture and chiropractic care as well as yoga and massage therapy.

Holistic health practitioners should also be able to diagnose your condition and explain the different treatments available to make an informed decision about your treatment options.

It is also important to ask if the doctor is certified by professional organizations, such as the American Holistic Medical Association (NCBCTM) or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). NBOHMCA certification is available in many areas, such as naturopathic, acupuncture or homeopathy, clinical nutritional, herbal medicine, aromatherapy and clinical nutrition.

Our directory can help you find holistic practitioners in your area. If there isn’t one, you may be capable of searching online for a holistic practitioner near you.

Ask your local hospital or doctor to verify if they offer holistic care.

Visit your local library to find books and resources related to holistic health.

–

——————————————————————————————————————————————

This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.

If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.