Relaxation and Stress Relief Recommendations for Travelers

Q: After reading and listening to the virtual barbershop you posted recently, I was wondering if you had any recommendations for audio apps designed for relaxation. I travel between LA and NYC regularly, and I'm looking for something which can reduce my stress levels during plane flights and during lunch breaks, or just block out all the loud and distracting noises around me.

Sent by Melissa

Editor: As someone who has been known to use noise-canceling headphones with only the sound-canceling feature on without music, I can certainly understand the desire for peace and quiet in the city or in a busy communal space. Here are a couple of apps available for iOS and Android devices designed specifically for relaxation:

If you love the pitter-patter and dramatic rumble of a storm, Thunderspace simulates the experience in stereoscopic 3D audio. Two thunderstorms are included in seamless loop format with a .99 cents purchase, with six additional simulated storms available as in-app purchase options.

Android users often cite Ambiance as their go-to audio relaxation app (or in the developer's words, an "environment enhancer"). The $2.99 app includes 3,500 sounds for download and mixing for customized effect. There's also a desktop preview version available here for both Mac and PC users. 

Leave any further suggestions for Melissa in the comments - thanks!

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(Images: Thunderspace; Urban Apps, LLC)