Studies show that certain sounds can increase stress levels but sound therapy can help alleviate stress and treat illness by using sounds that calm and soothe.

It is well known that certain sounds such as the ocean, whale sounds and some musical tones can have a calm, soothing affect. But what may not be so well known is that some sounds actually produce stress.

Studies in sound therapy show that vibrations resonate on nerve endings which can produce a variety of stress-related conditions. Some physicians claim that sound has even been found to have a connection to violent behavior. Recent studies also indicate that sounds such as traffic noise, loud voices, slamming doors and certain types of music cause increased stress levels.

When the body suffers from stress, the heart rate increases, blood pressure rises, muscles tense and breathing becomes rapid. Some people are affected by sound and various stress triggers more than others. These people are described as Type A personalities. Type A individuals are usually work-a-holics and perfectionists. They are more prone to suffer from stress-related illnesses. Headaches, depression and intestinal disorders such as ulcers are more likely to be found in Type A individuals. Many Type A personalities suffer from hypertension and are more susceptible to stroke or heart disease.

It is imperative that people who fall into this category learn to recognize their stress triggers and take action toward management of their stress levels. It is much easier to tell someone to relax than for a person to do so. But if stress is adversely affecting your health, you need to take every measure possible to relax. Do whatever you like to do to relax and try to make the time to relax as often as you can.

Highly stressed individuals may want to try sound therapy. Many people have been successfully treated for a variety of ailments including allergies, depression and even chronic pain by using sound therapy. There are many tapes to choose from which can be beneficial in using sound therapy at home. Many practioners of sound therapy choose to combine deep breathing meditation, massage and aromatherapy into their alternative healing methods and to aid in stress reduction. You may also consult a sound therapist who can guide you in stress management and the uses of sound therapy in conjunction with other techniques.

Sound therapy, laser techniques and many other alternative healing methods are in the forefront of the medical community. Although many of these techniques are already firmly established, others are still in the experimental stages. Sound therapy is definetly proving to be beneficial in stress management as well as other aspects of healing.

So the next time noise starts to get to you, don't let it stress you out. Try to find a few moments of quiet time.

Remember: "Silence Is Golden."