Rebecca Manzi Listening to birdsong has positive effects on our psychological health, reducing anxiety and depression. On the contrary, city noise increases stress and worsens mood
In recent years, numerous studies have highlighted the connection between nature and mental well-being. A recent study conducted by the Max Planck Institute has revealed that birdsong can have positive effects on psychological health, helping to reduce anxiety, depression, and even paranoia.
The study involved 295 participants who were exposed to different auditory stimuli for six minutes: varying levels of traffic noise and birdsong with different degrees of diversity. The results showed that natural sounds, particularly the chirping of multiple bird species, had a positive impact on emotional states, alleviating symptoms of psychological distress. In contrast, exposure to urban noise had the opposite effect, increasing stress levels and worsening mood.
One of the most interesting aspects of the research was the role of diversity in birdsong. Participants who listened to more varied melodies, consisting of eight different bird species, reported a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, anxiety, and paranoia. Even those who listened to fewer bird songs, from only two species, still experienced psychological benefits.
Nature sounds activate brain mechanisms linked to relaxation and well-being
A second study, led by King’s College London, confirmed these positive effects, suggesting that brief exposure to nature sounds, even through the use of headphones, can activate brain mechanisms associated with relaxation and well-being. Ryan Hammoud, one of the researchers involved, described this discovery as particularly significant due to its potential impact on the treatment and prevention of stress-related disorders.
These studies emphasize the importance of natural environments for emotional balance and suggest that incorporating birdsong into daily life could be a simple yet effective way to enhance mood. For those living in urban settings, listening to recordings of natural sounds—if direct immersion in nature is not possible—could serve as a useful strategy to reduce stress and promote mental well-being.
In an increasingly fast-paced and noisy world, reconnecting with nature, even through sound alone, may be a key to improving quality of life and alleviating the burden of negative emotions.
