Finding Zen in the Hissss: Spotify’s Soothing World of White Noise

Have you ever felt like your mind is racing a million miles a minute? OR …

Image created by Author

Have you ever struggled to concentrate with noisy distractions all around? You’re not alone. Lots of people, including me, use white noise to help find focus or relax. Let me tell you how I first discovered the calming power of white noise, and why Spotify is now dealing with a tricky problem thanks to its popularity.

What is White Noise? 🌬️

First, what exactly is white noise? It’s essentially a simple background hissss sound that contains every frequency humans can hear at equal levels. It somewhat sounds like a radio or TV static. The sound masks noises that are typically distracting to help you relax, zone out or zero in. Your brain starts tuning it out so you can focus your attention to where you want.

How I Found Focus with White Noise 🎧

I started using white noise during my college late night study sessions. The campus library was way too quiet for me — where every cough or paper shuffle would break my focus. Then I discovered the white noise playlists on Spotify. Having that constant, neutral sound in the background was just what I needed to get in my zone. I just loved how the hissing blocked out most of…