About Sleep
Sleep Related Conditions
Sleep Disorders
Everyone knows about concepts such as White Noise—even brown noise if you’re particularly savvy—but they often view this as sort of a sleep aid, rather than an essential aspect.
The sounds you expose yourself to in your sleeping space are part of your sensory background and can really help make getting to sleep easier.
We’ve recommended some relaxing sounds to try below.
1. Rain Sounds
Probably the most popular sleep sound, the sound of rain certainly sends people off to sleep with relative ease. Maybe it triggers a primitive impulse to shelter and cease activity, or maybe it’s just consistent and methodical, but it works.
Rain sounds help you to create a perfect sound environment to focus, sleep, work and study.
2. Ocean Sounds
Another classic, there is very little as relaxing as the rhythmic sounds of waves slapping against the shore. Bringing memories of warmth and summer vacation, not much else can compare.
3. Fan Noise
Many people love the steady, soft, whirring of fan blades. Unfortunately, not everyone likes the sensation of wind on their skin. Technology to the rescue, delivering the sound of the fan without the ventilation.
4. Nature Sounds
In case none of the previous sounds are your speed, it’s not a bad idea to check out other nature sounds, or a natural mix.
Many people can relax in nature, and a sleep recording is a great way to do that without having to deal with real-life creepy crawlies or predators.
5. Waterfall Noise
Many people think of waterfall noise as a general category of soothing sounds, and it can be. However, it specifically refers to the calming sound of cascading water, like that of a natural waterfall.
For most people, this sound is reminiscent of standing near a serene waterfall, creating a relaxing atmosphere that can aid in sleep and relaxation. While it may not be soothing for everyone, it works wonders for many.
6. Clock Ticking
Everyone is different. For me, nothing keeps me from falling asleep more than the ticking of a clock. Any noisy clock gets exiled from my bedroom. But for others, the methodical ticking is just what the sandman ordered.
7. Thunderstorm Sounds
My personal favorite, nothing lulls me to sleep faster than the sound of rolling thunder and hard rain.
Perhaps it makes me think of warm summer nights, or maybe it just makes me thankful to be indoors. Whatever the reason, it sends me, and a lot of others, right to sleep.
8. Ambient Noise
Can be a vague category, but great to explore. It’s amazing what can end up being an asleep trigger.
When I was younger I couldn’t get to sleep without ambient traffic or other city noise. Give the category or a mix a try and see if it works for you.
9. Piano Sounds
Piano sounds can often be thought of as beautiful music, and they are. Specifically, they consist of soft, melodic tunes that promote relaxation and tranquility.
These soothing sounds can create a peaceful atmosphere that encourages restful sleep.
Finals Thoughts
Make things easier on yourself by being consistent in playing relaxing sounds every evening while you sleep, so that you’ll implant a sensory trigger that will tell your mind it’s time to shut down and rest.
We recommend you download a sleep app that has an extensive sound list, such as ShutEye, and make listening to sleep tracks a nightly habit. Explore the many different sounds it offers and create your own healthy sleep environment.
