Stress, Evolution, and the Human Voice

As a neurodivergent person, I can nerd out on neuroscience all day. And, as a voiceover artist, I'm intimately familiar with how the nuances of a human voice can effect the emotional climate of a room. So, any wellness initiative needs to think about the impact of the voices it uses in its content. So, how is the human stress response influenced by auditory input? How does the human voice favor into stress relief?

Understanding the Human Stress Response
Before we dive into the soothing effects of voices, it's crucial to understand how the human stress response works. Traditionally, we've associated stress with the "fight or flight" response. In the face of a perceived threat, our bodies release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline to prepare us for action.
But it's not that simple. Recent research has expanded this understanding to include two additional responses: "fawn" and "freeze." These responses are important for comprehending how people react to stress in more nuanced ways:

1. Fight: The "fight" response is our natural inclination to confront a stressor head-on. In the workplace, this might manifest as assertiveness or a determination to solve a problem.
2. Flight: The "flight" response involves the urge to escape or avoid a stressor. This can be seen when someone procrastinates or seeks distraction from their work-related stress.
3. Fawn: The "fawn" response is characterized by a desire to please others or seek approval when faced with stress. In the workplace, it may involve overcommitting or putting others' needs above one's own.
4. Freeze: The "freeze" response is akin to feeling paralyzed by stress. It can manifest as indecision, avoidance, or feeling stuck in a situation without a clear path forward.
   
   

The Impact of Auditory Input on Stress
Now, let's talk about auditory input and its role in managing the stress response. The sounds we hear can have a profound impact on our emotional well-being. While loud and jarring noises can increase stress, soothing sounds, such as the human voice, have the opposite effect.

1. Evolutionary Connection: Evolutionarily, the human voice has been associated with comfort and safety. From the soothing lullabies that calm infants to the comforting words of a loved one during tough times, the human voice has a unique ability to ease anxiety.
2. Biological Mechanisms: Listening to voices triggers the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone." Oxytocin promotes feelings of trust and reduces stress and anxiety levels.
3. Empathy and Connection: The human voice carries emotional nuances that convey empathy and connection. Hearing a supportive voice can make us feel understood and less alone in our stressors.

Listening to Voices: Stress Relief in the Workplace

In the context of the workplace, where stress is a constant companion, listening to voices can be a valuable tool for finding relief. Here are some ways to incorporate this practice into your wellness program.

1. Meditation and Mindfulness: Consider guided meditation sessions or mindfulness exercises that incorporate soothing voices. These can help employees relax, focus, and manage stress during breaks.
2. Podcasts and Audiobooks: Encourage employees to listen to podcasts or audiobooks during commute or lunch breaks. These can be not only informative but also comforting and stress-relieving.
3. Voice Messages and Support: Foster a culture of support by encouraging colleagues to send voice messages of encouragement or gratitude. Hearing a friendly voice can provide a sense of camaraderie and alleviate stress.
4. Relaxation Rooms: Create dedicated relaxation spaces in the workplace where employees can go to listen to calming voices or engage in guided relaxation exercises.