The Role of Natural Soundscapes in Psychological Restoration in Urban Public Spaces

Authors

Liu Dongyu

Faculty of Creative Industries, City University Malaysia (Malaysia)

Zhu Zhenya

Faculty of Creative Industries, City University Malaysia; Malaysian Institute of Information Technology, Universiti Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

Fauzi Naeim

Faculty of Creative Industries, City University Malaysia (Malaysia)

Mo Yunjie

Faculty of Creative Industries, City University Malaysia (Malaysia)

Article Information

DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS.2025.91100547

Subject Category: Design

Volume/Issue: 9/11 | Page No: 7042-7048

Publication Timeline

Submitted: 2025-12-08

Accepted: 2025-12-15

Published: 2025-12-23

Abstract

As urbanization picks up speed, city people experience less exposure to natural settings and more noise pollution, which causes psychological stress. Birdsong, running water, and rustling leaves are examples of natural soundscapes that have been shown to have profoundly positive psychological impacts. This study examines how natural soundscapes might aid in psychological healing in urban public areas, examines how they can improve mood, reduce stress, and regain focus, and summarizes real-world uses in a variety of urban contexts. According to research, natural soundscapes not only improve mental health but also positively impact physiological markers, providing urban residents with an inexpensive, easily accessible, and non-invasive means of achieving psychological healing. In order to improve the psychological well-being and quality of life of locals, this paper attempts to offer theoretical underpinnings and useful recommendations for urban public space design.

Keywords

Natural soundscapes, Urban public spaces, Psychological restoration

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