11/12/2025
Simplified explanation by Doctor of Audiology and Tinnitus expert, Dr. Sarah Downs.
Our bodies are constantly surrounded by sounds, sights, smells, and sensations. The nervous system decides which ones to pay attention to and which ones to ignore. With tinnitus, the brain can react in one of two ways:
* “This isn’t important, tune it out,” or
* “This might be important, tune it in.”
When tinnitus becomes bothersome, it’s because the nervous system has decided to tune it in. This happens when a low-level “fight or flight” response—called neuroception—interprets the sound as a possible threat. Neuroception works like a home security system, always scanning for danger.
Because this response happens automatically and below conscious awareness, retraining it requires a gentle approach. We do this by pairing soothing sounds with relaxation techniques. When the body relaxes, the fight-or-flight system calms down, and the brain learns that tinnitus isn’t dangerous.
Sound generation helps break that loop.
Here’s how it works:
1. Reduces contrast
2.Retrains the brain
3. Calms the nervous system
4.Improves sleep and concentration
5. Gives you control
The key is consistency—using relaxing sounds regularly, especially in quiet moments, helps the brain reprogram its response. Over time, the tinnitus becomes less noticeable and less distressing, allowing your body and mind to relax more easily.
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www.oraclehearingcenter.com
Find an audiologist specializing in tinnitus at: www.ata.org.
