Brits find these sounds 'most soothing' as majority find modern life 'noisier' than decade ago

Waves crashing on the shore, bird song and the sound of a gushing waterfall - these are the most soothing sounds for British people.

New research has found 42% of us are instantly calmed by certain chimes, with 'green noises' from nature relaxing us the most. Also in the list of tranquil tones were the sound of rain on a tent, the purr of a cat and wood crackling and popping on an open fire.

While 72% Britons regularly listen to relaxing sounds to unwind after a stressful day, 90% of people said loud and unpleasant noises stress them out. Some of the biggest sound stressors were unexpected car horns, car alarms going off at night and screaming children.

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Meanwhile 56% of people believe that modern life is noisier now than ten years ago, because of increased traffic, people talking loudly on mobile phones, bigger crowds and never-ending road works. This results in Brits feeling feeling stressed an average of nine times a week, the poll by firm Aqua Sana Forest Spa found.

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." Psychologist Dr. Becky Spelman, who was involved in the study, added: “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.

"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."