4. Ambient Noise
Any kind of background sound that you find soothing can help you rest and fall asleep. The bubbling of a fish tank or gentle whirring of a ceiling fan can create a generic backdrop for your brain.
5. Music
Death metal or a march by John Philip Sousa wouldn’t be your best choice but soothing music can help you de-stress. Classical, soft jazz, or new age genres can ease away your troubles and loosen your focus on daily life to transport you to a lighter place. The song “Weightless” was found in one study to be the most relaxing ever tested.
https://youtu.be/8ptfyhBjXj8?t=5s
6. Nature
There is a biological reason that sounds of nature bring us peace. Not the growl of a bear, of course, but bird calls, a breeze through the trees, and ocean waves ground and center us, bringing us back to the place of our origin. Be careful of running water sounds, however—for some people, they induce a need to use the bathroom.
7. Animal Sounds
Similar to nature sounds, the purring of a cat, chirping of a cricket, or hoot of an owl can be calming and soothing. Best not to sleep with a pet in your bed, but the sounds can provide comfort. Recordings are available that you can play to surround you with restful critters.
https://youtu.be/IWVaqk4H7b0
8. Silence
Sometimes silence is deafening. And sometimes it is the blank slate you need for a restful sleep. For some, even the sound of the wind can be enough to disrupt rest. Heavy curtains on the window, a reinforced door, floorboards that don’t squeak, and ear plugs can all contribute to providing the peace and quiet you need to drift off.
With the critical importance of sleep, whatever it takes to get you there and keep you there is worth whatever method you need to employ. Don’t be shy—let sound be your sleepy-time friend.