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Listening to birds singing is positive for our mental health. Birdsong is one of nature's most beautiful sounds. Conversely, noise from traffic can increase our stress. A study from the UK suggests that traffic noise may reduce the positive effects of birdsong on our mood. A researcher said traffic noise reduces the benefits on our well-being of natural sounds. She said we needed more green spaces in towns. She also suggested lowering speed limits.
More than 1,500 people took part in the study. They listened to natural sounds and traffic noise. They then answered questions about how relaxed they felt. The researchers found that listening to traffic noise reduced people's feelings of well-being. A researcher said we need to find out more about how much traffic noise affects sounds in nature. She added that we need more outdoor spaces to help people who are stressed.
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