Sound moves us, heals us, and shapes how we think and feel. But what if part of its power lies in something even more primal, our connection to the natural world?
Here lies an intersection of sound, neuroscience, and biophilia our innate tendency to seek harmony with nature.
Music as a Cognitive Enhancer
Let’s start with what we already know: ssound activates multiple areas of the brain. It can help us focus; enhance creativity and Problem-Solving; but also in theprocess of rehabilitation and memory.
Biophilic Soundscapes
Here’s where biophilia enters the conversation.
Coined by biologist E.O. Wilson, biophilia refers to the innate human attraction to nature. We are wired to find comfort in the sound of a forest, the rhythm of waves, or the chirping of birds. Interestingly, music can mimic these elements, creating biophilic soundscapes that soothe the nervous system and enhance mental health. Think of ambient tracks that use rain, wind, or rustling leaves or classical compositions that follow natural cadences or imitate birdsong.
These sounds create a kind of sonic shelter, reconnecting us to environments where we feel most at ease, even when we’re stuck indoors or stressed out.
The Other Side
On the flip side, there’s biophobia, a stress response to environments (or sounds) that feel unnatural, threatening, or chaotic. Harsh alarms, dissonant chords, or industrial noise can trigger anxiety and discomfort. And while some music uses this intentionally it’s important to recognize the psychological impact.
Why This Matters
Understanding music through the lens of biophilic and biophobic systems adds a powerful dimension to how we use it.
Our brains evolved alongside birdsong, rustling trees, and the pulse of the earth. So next time you press play, ask yourself: does this music bring me closer to nature—or push me away from it?
