Pay attention! There are certain sounds that have the power to heal. What to listen for...

You’ve heard that music can soothe the savage beast – but did you know a purring can heal broken bones? 

A recent study of sounds has shed some light on some specific healing powers. Here are a few to listen for:

• A purring cat can heal broken bones, because they purr at the optimal frequency for bone stimulation. That purr can actually help strengthen bones and speed the healing of fractures. Studies are underway to see if purring can help to prevent osteoporosis.

• The sound of a harp can help with heart problems. Vibrations from harp music have been found to reduce blood pressure, calm the nervous system, and normalize irregular heartbeats. Some operating rooms even play harp music during delicate heart surgeries.

• Waterfalls work for soothing pain. Patients with chronic pain exposed to sounds of rushing water experienced a significant drop in stress hormones and less discomfort. 

• Ocean waves wash away sadness and stress. It’s the ultimate form of white noise and induces serenity. Students who listened to ocean sounds had less anxiety and less depression.