Are you getting enough green noise? A new study suggests that the sounds of nature, such as wood crackling, the gentle snore of a dog, or trickling water, are, in fact, the key to calmness, relaxation, and ultimate happiness.

As many as 72 percent of the 2,000 Brits who took part in the study, said certain sounds instantly calm their minds, with ‘green noise’ – the soothing sounds of nature – like rustling leaves (23 percent) and snow crunching under foot (19 percent).

Leading mental health psychologist Doctor Becky Spelman explains, “Our environment profoundly influences our mental state, and sound is a key component in this dynamic, playing a critical role in our overall mental health and well-being.

“The influence of sound on our emotional state is profound and often overlooked. Nature sounds, often referred to as green noise, can create a calming atmosphere that significantly alleviates stress.

“When we listen to the gentle sounds of nature, like a waterfall cascading over rocks or the soft rustling of leaves in a breeze, we allow our minds to shift from a state of alertness to one of relaxation.

“This transition is essential for mental clarity and peace, as it provides a respite from the constant demands of daily life.”

The sound of rain on a tent was cited as a happy and relaxing sound, by 38 percent of those studied, along with the wind whistling through trees (30 percent) and the sound of a thunderstorm in the distance (28 percent).

The research from Aqua Sana Forest Spa reveals in contrast, nine in ten (90 percent) of the 2,000 polled say that loud and unpleasant noises stress them out, with unexpected car horns (47 percent), car alarms going off at night (46 percent), screaming children (44 percent), people shouting in the street (42 percent) and dogs barking (32 percent) all sending pulses racing.

Dr. Spelman further elaborates, “Our auditory senses have a unique ability to trigger memories and emotions. The soothing sounds of nature can evoke feelings of safety and comfort, reminding us of serene environments where we feel most at ease. By intentionally incorporating these sounds into our environments, we can create a sanctuary that promotes emotional well-being and resilience.”

Stuart Angus, Director of Spa at Aqua Sana Forest Spa, said, “The research reveals the important role that sounds play both in how we relax and in everyday stresses, and it was no surprise that birdsong, waterfalls and sounds of the rainforest were all considered as some of the most relaxing sounds – all of which have been introduced across our spas.

“Our Forest Spa concept includes immersive and sensory experiences from around the world, and with 89 percent stating that surrounding themselves in nature is the best way to unwind, it really demonstrates the impact that being in an environment like the forest has on people and why we’ve brought this to the forefront for our guests.”

Are you getting enough Green Noise? How many of these calming and happy sounds have you heard recently?

Waves crashing onto the shore – 50%
Bird song – 46%
The sound of a waterfall – 41%
The trickle of a stream – 40%
The sound of rain on a tent – 38%
The wind whistling through the trees – 30%
A thunderstorm in the distance – 28%
The soft purr of a cat – 27%
Wood crackling and popping on an open fire – 26%
Windchimes – 24%
Rustling leaves – 23%
Spa music – 22%
Sounds of the rainforest – 20%
The sound of snow crunching underfoot – 19%
Sound of a harp – 18%
A baby giggling – 18%
The gentle ticking of a clock – 13%
Church bells ringing – 12%
White noise on the TV – 11%
A water sprinkler – 11%
The rhythm of a train on the tracks – 11%
A child’s bedtime story – 10%
A bath being run – 10%
A drink being poured into a glass – 9%
The clinking of ice cubes in a glass or jug – 8%
Your dog snoring – 7%
The sound of cicadas on holiday – 7%
Horses’ hooves on the ground – 7%
The pfft when opening a canned drink – 7%
Splashing in the bath – 6%

About Aqua Sana Forest Spa
Inspired by the natural world and tucked away in the heart of the forest, Aqua Sana Forest Spa, which has five locations across the UK, is a multi-sensory escape bringing together up to 25 immersive spa experiences featuring the sights, sounds, scents and sensations of the world’s most extraordinary natural landscapes.

Designed to improve mental and physical wellbeing, Aqua Sana Forest Spas include toasty saunas, bubbling hydrotherapy pools, herbal steam baths and allow Brits to discover the healing, and relaxation, powers of heat, water and nature.

This research of 2,000 Britons was commissioned by Center Parcs and conducted by Perspectus Global in August 2024.