Sownd Affects Festival

I recently had the privilege of participating as an audiology expert at the inaugural Sownd Affects Festival in Hackney, London—a pioneering event dedicated to hearing wellness and sensory exploration. This unique festival, held from March 3 to 9, 2025, coincided with World Hearing Day and aimed to promote audio inclusivity and address the often-overlooked issue of noise sensitivity. Details of the event can be found: https://sowndaffects.com/

Understanding Noise Sensitivity

It's noteworthy that approximately 30% of the population experiences noise sensitivity. This group includes individuals who are hard of hearing, neurodivergent (such as those with ADHD or autism), over the age of 50, or living with conditions like misophonia. Despite its prevalence, noise sensitivity remains underrepresented in mainstream discussions, making events like Sownd Affects crucial for raising awareness and fostering inclusivity.

Festival Highlights

The festival offered a diverse array of immersive experiences designed to cater to both the noise-sensitive community and the sound-curious. Among the standout events were:

• Immersive Gong Bath: A Deep Listening Experience: This session provided attendees with a relaxing sound journey, utilizing the rich vibrations of gongs to soothe the nervous system and create space for reflection.

• Intimate Sensory Workshop: An interactive workshop that delved into the connection between sound, touch, and emotion, exploring how sensory experiences impact arousal, relaxation, and communication.

• Sownd Affects: The Main Event: A multisensory evening featuring live acoustic performances, interactive talks, and experiments centered around noise sensitivity. The event also included an exploration of how sound influences taste, led by gastrophysics expert Charles Spence.

World Health Organisation

The festival was curated in collaboration with the World Health Organisation’s World Hearing Forum, underscoring the global significance of addressing hearing wellness.

Reflections and Takeaways

Participating in the Sownd Affects Festival was an enlightening experience that underscored the importance of creating accessible, hearing-friendly environments. As an audiology expert, it was heartening to see a community come together to address noise pollution and its impact on hearing health. The festival not only provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by noise-sensitive individuals but also showcased innovative approaches to fostering audio inclusivity.

Your Hearing Wellness Matters

At Hearco, we are dedicated to promoting hearing wellness and supporting individuals with noise sensitivity. Whether you're experiencing hearing loss, tinnitus, or simply wish to learn more about protecting your hearing, our team is here to assist you. We offer comprehensive hearing assessments, personalised hearing protection solutions, and counselling services to help you navigate your auditory health journey.

Connect with Us

If you have any concerns about your hearing or wish to explore preventive measures, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Hearco.