WEIRD Ear Trick EASES Pain (No Pills!)
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted February 5, 2024
There’s a weird painkiller out there that you’ve got to hear to believe. It’s a method for using your EARS to ease your pain.
But here’s the thing. You’ve ALREADY heard it before.
The trouble is you had no clue that any pain-fighting properties could be attached. Or that those benefits can be SO powerful that, in some ways, they put drugs to shame.
This pain reliever won’t cost you a penny… You don’t have to lift a muscle to get it…
And there’s nothing to swallow, either.
Research reveals natural SOUNDS can help fight everyday aches and pains. Plus, this same “ear candy” can make you more resilient to pain, stress, and anxiety.
Heck, they reportedly can even boost cognitive performance.
Most of us enjoy certain natural sounds, such as the pitter-patter of rain, the rush of a mighty waterfall, or the lilting songs of birds. But how often do you stop and REALLY listen?
Well, if this study is any indication, maybe not often enough. Researchers found that folks who go out into nature and are more mindful of these sounds receive physical and mental benefits.
The soothing natural soundtrack eases pain and fights stress. And certain sounds may even deliver some very specific benefits.
Bird sounds, for example, can fight emotional stress. While flowing water can enhance positive emotions.
Now, I know what you’re probably thinking. Because it was MY reaction at first, too. You’re thinking this hippy-dippy idea seems far too woo to be true. Am I right?
I don’t blame you. If it were just one study, I’d still be skeptical myself. But I did some digging, and it’s not. Not by a long shot.
- In 2014, a study out of Iran found that nature sounds over headphones eased pain during the 90 minutes the volunteers listened. Plus, those benefits stuck around for at least a half-hour after.
- In 2015 researchers in Minnesota found nature sounds and soothing music can significantly ease pain after cardiovascular surgery.
- Research in 2017 used an MRI to measure volunteers’ brain activity while they listened to natural and artificial sounds. Their brain connectivity showed an outward focus of attention when listening to the natural sounds. Plus, nervous system activity associated with relaxation increased.
- Another study found listening to music during dental procedures significantly reduced pain and induced relaxation in children with low pain tolerances.
The overall benefits are modest, of course. We’re not talking about magically erasing major pain. After all, if it worked THAT well, none of us would ever feel pain when outside or listening to music.
But remember, many common painkillers… including powerful prescription meds… often FLUNK long-term studies on chronic pain.
Plus, they come with some serious side effects that can be nearly as bad as the pain itself.
In any case, the best approach to beating pain, especially the chronic variety, isn’t with a single strategy. A combination of methods is far more effective.
So, go ahead and step outside for a walk in nature (exercise is another proven way to ease pain).
And then, while you’re out there, be mindful of the birds and other natural sounds. Truly focus on them for some instant, free pain relief.
P.S. “Go Green” to SLASH everyday aches and pains.
Source:
Bauer BA, et al., “Effect of the combination of music and nature sounds on pain and anxiety in cardiac surgical patients: a randomized study.” Altern Ther Health Med. 11 Jul-Aug;17(4):16-23. PMID: 22314630.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
WARNING—Your Water Bottle Is Hiding a Disgusting Secret
Recently, a few people have asked me if it’s true that their water bottle has more germs than a toilet seat. It’s a shocking comparison that’ll make you think twice about everyday objects you use without much thought. So, is this claim true? Well, I must warn you that you might not like the answer…...
Research Reveals 3-for-1 Brain Protection "Checklist"
Age-related brain diseases—including stroke, dementia, and depression—threaten our quality of life. They can take the shine right out of your Golden Years. But you don’t have to take these threats lying down. While there are no guarantees in life, there are steps you can take to turn the odds in your favor—especially when it comes...
Mailbag: Your “Healthy Diet” Might Leave You Running on Empty
“Do supplements really work?” Hopeful Skeptic Hi Hopeful, That’s a fantastic question! It gets straight to the heart of a vital fact about human biology. Our bodies are incredible machines. But they don’t work in a vacuum. They require outside help to function. For example, they can’t manufacture most vitamins and minerals on their own....
Forgotten 80s Superfood Reemerges as Artery Superstar
Do you remember when vitamin E was the talk of the town? This common nutrient had a surge of popularity in the 80s and 90s. But now I can’t remember the last time I had a patient ask me about it. Well, it turns out this forgotten 80s superfood deserves another moment in the spotlight....
Strokes CAN Strike Twice—This Simple Fix Cuts Your Risk 20%
They say lightning never strikes twice in the same place. But that old adage couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to strokes. If you’ve had a stroke, you might think you’re out of the woods once you recover. But the reality is far different… A comprehensive study published in JAMA revealed the...
Can Your Diet Defend Your Brain From Aging?
Our brains work hard every day, helping us solve problems, create memories, and connect with loved ones. But as we age, they face new challenges that can quietly chip away at our vitality. One of those challenges? The buildup of iron. Though iron is essential for many functions, too much can harm your brain, contributing...
Common Deficiency DOUBLES Risk of Your Body Attacking Itself
Most of us know vitamin D as the “sunshine vitamin.” And many think of it mainly for bone health as we age. But research now suggests that this nutrient may be just as crucial for supporting our immune system throughout life, beginning as early as childhood. In fact, a lack of vitamin D, especially in...
What Is a Healthy Night’s Sleep? Three Critical Criteria
We’ve all heard the advice about how important getting enough sleep is to your health. Heck, I have even given this advice countless times. But here’s what the so-called sleep experts aren’t telling you—that perfectly uninterrupted eight hours of sleep they keep preaching about? It’s a myth. In fact, if you wake up several times...
Can Your “Poop Schedule” Predict Disease?
We all do it. If you’re alive, you poop. Some of us are so regular that we could set a clock based on our bathroom habits. Others, not so much. And yet, talking about bowel movements remains one of those taboo topics. Even your doctor skims over it during your annual checkup! But the truth...
Mailbag: "Digestive Drama" Strikes MILLIONS Over 50
“As an older woman I’m noticing changes in my digestion. Why does it become more difficult to digest food as we get older?” —Grumbling Gut Age-related changes to digestion are common, and they don’t get talked about nearly enough. It seems our stomachs decide to alter the rules just when we’ve mastered the game of...