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Ocean Sounds for Sleep

Published: Apr 12, 2024
Updated: Sep 06, 2024
Ocean Sounds for Sleep
In this article
    Reading time
    3 min

    For many, the sound of water flowing and waves crashing can be rather relaxing and therapeutic. The relaxing sounds not only calm the mind but it also helps you to sleep better. Imagine you’re by the beach and watching the sunset. As you feel the soft sand beneath your toes, you’re serenaded by the rhythmic melody of gentle waves caressing the shoreline. Play and listen to our ocean sounds for sleep audio here!

    Why Does Ocean Sounds Help With Sleep

    Ocean sounds can help us to sleep better and tackle problems like insomnia due to how our brains interprets the noises that we hear. Whether we are awake or asleep, our brain would classify the sounds that we hear into two categories– threat and non-threat.

    According to Orfeu Buxton, an associate professor of bio-behavioral health at Pennsylvania State University, the slow, whooshing sounds of ocean waves are sounds of non-threat. This explains why they work to calm people down.

    Benefits of Listening to Ocean Sounds for Sleep

    Listening to ocean sounds for sleep can contribute to an improved sleep quality and better overall well-being. In a study that examined the health benefits of natural soundscapes, the results showed that natural soundscapes like ocean sounds can improve health, positive affect, lower stress and annoyance (Buxton, R.T. et al., 2021). Water sounds were proven to have the largest effect on health compared to bird sounds and other natural sounds.

    Tips for Using Ocean Sounds Effectively for Better Sleep

    Here are some tips on how to use ocean sounds effectively to get a good night’s rest.

    1. Choose the right sound

    Experiment with different types of ocean waves sounds or include sounds of seagulls or wind into a mix to see if that resonates best with you. You can try out patented sleep tracking apps like ShutEye® which allows you to customize different kinds of sounds to create your own personalized sleep mix. If you do not feel like creating one, there are also pre-mixes for you to choose from.

    Try out more sleep sounds with ShutEye and discover the perfect combination for your peaceful slumber!

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    2. Adjust the volume

    When playing the audio, you want to ensure that you are adjusting the volume such that it is at a comfortable level that is soothing but not overpowering. It should be loud enough to allow you to immerse yourself in it but soft enough for you to drift off to sleep.

    3. Mindful listening

    Practice mindfulness while listening to ocean sounds by focusing your attention on the rhythmic ebb and flow of the waves. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment and let go of any intrusive thoughts and worries that may interfere with your sleep.

    4. Combine with white noise

    If you live in an area that is noisy which affects your sleep or you are sensitive to sudden noises, consider combining the ocean sounds with white noise to create a consistent background noise. This will help to minimize sleep disruptions.

    Summary

    So, the next time you find yourself struggling to fall asleep, try incorporating ocean sounds into your sleep routine. The calming nature of the ocean waves can help to relax your mind and lull you into a deep sleep.

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    FAQ

    Listening to ocean waves has a calming effect on the mind and body, helping individuals to relax and unwind. The rhythmic sound acts as a natural music that can induce a state of relaxation, making it ideal for various activities such as sleeping, studying or setting the ambiance for meditation sessions.

    The ocean sound is inherently relaxing due to its gentle and repetitive nature, which mimics the rhythm of deep breathing and promotes a sense of tranquility.

    It is beneficial for overall well-being. Evidence has shown that the sounds of waves can lower heart rate and blood pressure, alleviate anxiety and improves mood. The ShutEye YouTube channel also has some relaxing sleep sounds that you can listen to.

    For many, it does help with sleep. The gentle, repetitive sound acts as a natural white noise, masking other disruptive sounds and creating a peaceful sleep environment. Incorporating such sounds at bedtime can signal the brain that it is time to unwind and rest.
    About authors
    Amirah is a content writer passionate about topics related to mental health and wellness. Recently, she delved into the realm of sleep health, spurred by a personal recognition of her subpar sleep habits and a desire for improvement. Amirah holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Communication Studies from the University of Nottingham.

    Hadhazy, A. (2016) Why Does the Sound of Water Help You Sleep? [online]. Available at: https://www.livescience.com/53403-why-sound-of-water-helps-you-sleep.html

    Buxton, R.T. et al. (2021) A synthesis of health benefits of natural sounds and their distribution in natural parks [online]. A Proceedings of the Natural Academy of Sciences. 118. e2013097118. doi: 10.1073/pnas.2013097118.

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