Music and Nature Sounds

Natural sounds, such as the rustling of wind, flowing water, and birdsong, are not just aesthetic elements—they have been scientifically shown to have positive effects on both mental and physical well-being. Including natural sounds in spaces such as waiting areas, work environments, or homes is therefore not merely an aesthetic choice, but part of a holistic approach to supporting well-being.

Research supports the idea that natural soundscapes contribute to a broader connection with nature and are a significant boost to our well-being: they calm the mind, improve mental and physical health, and even support immunity.

A 2025 study by Xamk used a randomized controlled test with 53 healthy adults to measure parasympathetic nervous system activity and emotional states while listening to natural soundscapes (water, birds, crickets, wind, rain, campfire) compared to the sounds of a city café. The results showed improved heart rate variability, slower heart rate and breathing, and reduced feelings of anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Music tuned to 432 Hz is not only pleasant to listen to — it has also begun to be studied for its effects on well-being. This tuning differs from the modern standard (440 Hz) and is said to resonate more naturally with the body, mind, and nature. While more research is needed, preliminary results suggest that 432 Hz music may support recovery, reduce stress, and increase feelings of relaxation.

In a study by Calamassi & Pomponi (2019), listening to 432 Hz music led to significantly lower heart rates and reduced breathing frequency compared to 440 Hz music. Participants also reported increased focus and satisfaction. This suggests that carefully chosen tuning and soundscapes matter—not only for creating atmosphere but also for supporting well-being.

In recent years, lofi music has emerged not only as a trendy genre but also as a subject of well-being research. Its characteristic features include soft rhythms, limited frequency ranges, and intentional “imperfections.” Lofi music carries a comforting familiarity, evoking a sense of “the good old days.” These qualities are considered calming to the nervous system and help reduce cognitive load.

Lofi provides a rhythmic but non-intrusive background soundscape that supports focus and alleviates stress. Multiple observations suggest that listening to lofi music can enhance work performance and deepen concentration, especially in environments with distractions. Many report improved focus and reduced stress compared to silence or pop music.

This indicates that lofi music is not just a pleasant listening experience—it is also a potential tool for supporting well-being in work, learning, and relaxation. In other words, lofi is more than background music; it is an emotional environment where it’s easy to feel at ease.

Ambient music is designed to be as much a part of the environment as it is a listening experience. Its slow, layered soundscapes help the nervous system shift into a state of rest, supporting recovery, focus, and sleep quality. Ambient music can lower heart rate, reduce anxiety, and deepen breathing, especially in stressful or stimulus-rich environments. It functions as an “auditory breathing space,” bringing calm to treatment rooms, work environments, and homes alike.

Lounge music is designed to create a subtle yet pleasant atmosphere—it doesn’t interrupt conversation, but makes a space more comfortable. It is commonly used in hotels, restaurants, airport lounges, spas, and retail stores, where the goal is to foster a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance.

Typically, lounge music blends elements of jazz, chillout, and electronic music. Its purpose is to encourage longer stays, reduce feelings of rush, and support a positive customer experience. It functions as a kind of “auditory interior design,” making a space more inviting and aligned with the brand—often on a subconscious level.

Binaural sounds are not just curious audio experiments – their effects have also begun to be studied from a well-being perspective. The phenomenon occurs when slightly different frequencies are played into each ear. The brain interprets the frequency difference as a new, internal rhythm, which is thought to influence nervous system function and mental state.

Although more research is needed, initial results suggest that binaural sounds may support relaxation, improve sleep quality, and enhance concentration. Some studies have found that binaural sounds can reduce anxiety and support meditation. This indicates that carefully selected frequency differences and soundscapes may have an impact not only on the listening experience but also on overall well-being.

Listening to binaural sounds always requires headphones, so that the different frequencies reaching the left and right ear can be distinguished and the brain can generate the internal rhythm. YLE provides a very clear and comprehensive information package on the subject, which is well worth exploring.

Research suggests that brainwave changes do not occur instantly, nor in noisy environments. To achieve effects, at least about fifteen minutes of calm rest with headphones is usually needed. On the other hand, simply lying down with eyes closed for fifteen minutes while listening to any steady sound already promotes effective relaxation in itself.

Alpha Waves (8–13 Hz)
Alpha waves are associated with relaxation and the threshold of falling asleep. They also activate in passive situations, such as when watching television. A lack of alpha activity may increase susceptibility to stress, sleep difficulties, and anxiety.

Beta Waves (12–33 Hz)
Beta waves reflect active brain function. They dominate when a person is highly focused, thinking quickly, or in a state of alertness.

Delta Waves (1–3 Hz)
These are the deep sleep waves that support recovery, immune system function, and learning. Delta waves are strongest in children but decrease with age.

Theta Waves (3.5–8 Hz)
Theta waves are linked to dreaming, imagination, and emotional processing. They are especially active during REM sleep and moments of creative thinking.