I have noticed that as the world has become more wired, we have too. Many of us are a bit on edge most of the time. That is because there is noise wherever we go. At home, the TV is often on. At work, there are phones going off constantly as well as beeps and squeaks and all kinds of noise. We can be calm and relaxed and our phone goes off and we jump. We are conditioned to react whether it is a noise or a vibration.

Noise is more than an irritant. Researchers at Cornell University have studied the effects of noise pollution. They have found that noise increases the release of stress hormones. When this is continuous it can result in heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep and musculoskeletal problems. Chronic stress can impair immunity. When it comes to work and school, children exposed to noise pollution may have problems with learning and delayed language skills. Workers may be less productive and have impaired thinking ability.

Since it looks like noise pollution is not going away, it is important to know how to deal with it. Turning off the television and putting on mellow music or playing the sound of waves or wind can eliminate home noise pollution. Talking to your employer and working together may help decrease office noise pollution.

Personally, you can help deal with noise stress by learning to relax with the help of deep breathing exercises, meditation and yoga. Try taking cell phone and computer breaks. Get out and walk in the park where it is quiet and filled with the sound of nature, which can be soothing. Stop the noise pollution in your life, take action and relax.