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Living in a busy city like Delhi can be both exciting and overwhelming, as it offers so many opportunities, adventures and activities. Still, there is a persistent noise that can be difficult to ignore. Vehicle horns, loud construction work and busy street vendors create noise that many of us learn to block out. However, this urban noise is not just annoying; This can really harm your mental and physical health. Everyday sounds can be a hidden source of stress that harms our mental health. If you feel more irritable, struggle to relax after a long day, or deal with constant fatigue, your city noise is likely having an impact.
What is urban noise?
Research published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity suggests that prolonged exposure to high noise levels may increase the risk of anxiety, depression and problems with thinking. This is due to the way the body reacts to stress, and noise acts as a constant stimulus, keeping the stress response always active. The constant secretion of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline keeps the nervous system on high alert, preventing restful sleep.
Over time, ongoing stress can harm your health, leading to poor sleep, increased inflammation, and disruption of your sleep cycles. “These issues can result in emotional distress and trouble thinking clearly,” Dr. Pallavi Sharma, psychiatrist at Fortis Escorts, tells Health Shots. If you often feel tired or irritable for no apparent reason, think about your surroundings. The constant noise of urban life is not just background noise; This can really put your health at risk.
What are 5 ways to control noise pollution?
You don’t have to accept a life filled with constant noise. These five strategies can help you find peace in a busy city.
1. Soundproof your space
Start by looking at your home and work areas. Use sound-absorbing materials, such as heavy curtains, rugs and soft furniture, to reduce noise. “If you want to take it a step further, think about adding acoustic panels”, suggests Doc. These panels help absorb sound and reduce the overall noise level. If you live on a busy street, it might also be a good idea to soundproof your windows.
2. Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones
When you need complete peace, whether for studying, working or reading, earplugs and noise-canceling headphones can be very helpful. “They block out distracting noises, allowing you to focus and stay calm,” the psychiatrist shares. There are many options to choose from, so try different options to see which works best for you.
3. Green space
Nature can help us calm down, so take time to visit parks or gardens in your city. The rustling of leaves and the sound of birds singing can reduce stress. “Even a quick walk around your block can help reduce anxiety caused by city noise,” says Dr. Sharma. Bring plants into your home; They can enhance the look of your space, reduce noise and improve indoor air quality.
4. Relaxing bedtime routine
If city noise keeps you awake, it’s important to create a calm and comfortable sleep environment. Blackout curtains can block out light and noise. Having a regular bedtime routine helps your body know it’s time to rest. Try deep breathing, light stretching, or listening to calming sounds to relax your mind. You can use a white noise machine or a soothing sound app to help you fall asleep even amidst the noise of the city.
5. Engage in community action
Individual actions matter, but changes in the community also matter. Support local efforts to reduce noise pollution. “This could include pushing for stricter zoning laws, creating green spaces near homes or using noise monitoring in busy areas,” the expert says. Discuss with your neighbors how noise affects mental health, and encourage everyone to collaborate for a quieter community.
,Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you have about a medical condition.)
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