Evaluating most relaxing Audio Accompaniment for Post-Workout Relaxation

Abstract

This research article aimed to evaluate the most relaxing audio accompaniment for post-workout relaxation. The study involved ten relaxation sessions with different musical accompaniments, and five participants rated their experiences on a relaxation scale, ranging from 1 (not at all relaxing) to 5 (completely relaxed and blissful). The sessions included nature sounds, musical instruments, vocalizations, and silence. The results showed varying responses among the participants (1.8 to 4.6 out of 5), indicating the influence of audio accompaniment on relaxation. The sounds of waterfall (3/5), beach campfire (2.8/5), the piano (3/5), vocalise (3.2/5) and the forest (3.2/5) were average and not fully relaxing, while singing bowls (4.2/5) and Koshi chimes (4.4/5) received highly positive responses. The harp received above average ratings (3.6/5), while silence presented challenges (2.8/5) for some participants; interestingly, session of silence had positive rating post 2 hours of the session. The wind session was the least relaxing (1.8/5), causing anxiety and discomfort. These ratings, collected immediately after the session, were similar to ratings collected after two hours of session confirming consistency of result and post impact. The study had recognized its limitation of the subjectivity of individual experiences and the impact of participants' initial states. Though other sounds suggested during the sessions also had a beneficial effect, the marked effects of wind chimes and singing bowls were highlighted in the study indicating its potential in relaxation. The research suggests incorporating these instruments into regular relaxation routines for enhanced well-being.