Health Fusion: Stressed out? Step into nature and listen to the sounds What sounds do you prefer? The clamor of congested traffic or the crash of waves on a sandy shore? In this episode of NewsMD's "Health Fusion," Viv Williams explores a study on the health benefits of nature sounds. 7:00 pm, Jul. 7, 2021 When I think about the sounds of nature, I feel a little calmer. Try it. Close your eyes and imagine you're at a national park. Hear the rustling of leaves in the forest, bird songs or a water fall. Nice, right? Researchers analyzed studies about what happens when people listen to nature. They found it can be seriously good for your health. Experts from Carleton University, Michigan State University and Colorado State University report that people who listened to nature sounds had decreased pain, lower stress, improved mood and enhanced cognitive performance. They even figured out that certain types of sounds helped in specific areas. For example, the sounds of water are most effective at improving positive emotions and health outcomes, while bird sounds combat stress and annoyance.