Listening to calming sounds, including the sound of a normal heartbeat, can be a helpful relaxation technique for some individuals, especially during moments of stress, anxiety, or panic. The idea behind using soothing sounds is to engage the senses in a calming manner, which can help distract the mind from anxious thoughts and provide a sense of comfort and relaxation.
Listening to a normal heartbeat might remind some people of feelings of safety and security they experienced as infants when they heard their mother's heartbeat. This can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the "rest and digest" response, which helps to counteract the fight-or-flight response associated with panic attacks and anxiety.
However, it's essential to remember that calming sounds or relaxation techniques may not work the same way for everyone. Individuals have different preferences and responses to various stimuli. Some people might find relief and relaxation through such auditory methods, while others may not experience any significant effect.
If you are dealing with panic attacks or anxiety, it's important to explore and find the relaxation techniques that work best for you. Breathing exercises, meditation, mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation, or seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor are also effective approaches to managing anxiety and panic attacks.
While calming sounds can be a part of your self-help strategies, if you find your anxiety or panic attacks are significantly impacting your daily life or overall well-being, it's crucial to consult a mental health professional for personalized guidance and support. They can provide tailored interventions and help address the root causes of your anxiety to create a more effective treatment plan.