We’ve all heard about White Noise as a tool to help us get better sleep, but now many are advocating for a Barbiefied touch of Pink. Which begs many questions, the first of which is, what the heck is Pink Noise?
As Healthline reports, the color of a sound is determined by its energy intensity and frequency distribution, and different colors affect our brains in unique ways. For example, the sound of a barking dog or horn can be disruptive, while softer nature noises can help you drift off and stay asleep. Here is a quick breakdown:
- White noise includes all audible frequencies. Examples: radio or TV static, humming air conditioner, whirring fan.
- Pink noise is like white noise, but with a little bit of a bass line. It sounds like rustling leaves, steady rain, or a heartbeat.
- Brown or red noise is even deeper than pink noise. Think of strong waterfalls or thunder.
- Black noise is actually a lack of noise. It’s silence or as close to it as possible.
But how can Pink Noise help us sleep better? A 2012 study found that it reduces brain waves, which increases stable sleep. Another 2017 study discovered it can induce deep sleep. Anecdotal evidence of its sleep benefits exists, too (it was even a TikTok trend in 2023). More research is needed, of course, but so far it sounds promising.
Want to try a pink noise sleep aid? Try listening to audio on Spotify, YouTube, and meditation apps from your computer, phone, or earbuds when it’s time to wind down for the night. There are even pink noise sleep machines on the market if you want to get serious about it.
—
Photo Credit: Bangkok Click Studio / Shutterstock.com