We do so much to keep ourselves healthy‚ diet, exercise, sleep‚ and now there is evidence that shows something else we can do: turn down the volume! University of Michigan scientists found that the blood pressure of factory workers rose 2 points for every 10-13 decibel increase in workplace noise. Another study, done in Germany, found that living in a noisy neighborhood, where traffic raised decibel levels above 60, doubled a man's chance of a heart attack, a tripled a woman's chance of a heart attack. How does this happen? Excess noise increases stress hormones that constrict arteries, and that's not good. The simple solution is earplugs. When you have to raise your voice to be heard by someone just 3 feet away, that's when you need earplugs. Watch the volume level on telephones, iPods and appliances, too. Be aware of noise levels at concerts and social events, and protect your ears when flying. And spend some time in silence every day. Silence is a wonderful rejuvenator for body, mind, and spirit. |
