Sleep Soundly with Sound Machines

I can think of few better feelings than being snug in a warm bed, soft covers pulled underneath my chin, and listening to the gentle sound of rain falling outside. Or laying back on the beach, eyes closed, and anticipating the rush of water as the waves roll in. These relaxing sounds can't always be at our beck and call. Or can they? Sound machines are quickly catching up to the times, providing more and more realistic tones and white noises to help ease you from your troubled stay into slumber.

HoMedics is the most popular brand of home therapy products. Affordable and easy to find, this brand is currently the top seller of home white noise machines. The HoMedics Sound Spa SS-2000 offers sounds from the ocean, rain forest, rain, summer night, and a heartbeat. You may program a timer for fifteen or thirty minutes, or leave the sounds on for a full hour. The machine is round and almost resembles a small UFO, and is therefore lightweight and easy to pack. At $29.99, this is the best bargain around. The HoMedics brand can be purchased at WalMart and Bed, Bath and Beyond.

If you are looking for a basic white noise machine, try the SleepMate 980A. Created by Marpac, this futuristic-looking machine might vaguely remind you of a droid in a Star Wars film. It offers one sound only; a light whirring fan noise. For those that insist on sleep with the fan on at night but have no desire to freeze during the winter months, this machine is for you. There is a two-speed option as well as tonal control. This unit averages around fifty dollars.

Sound Oasis is another well-known company that provides both relaxation and sleep machines. If you are looking for a top-of-the-line sound machine, look for the Deluxe Conditioner S-3000 Advanced Therapy machine. Averaging $180.00, this machine offers twenty sounds with five possible mixes, voice memo recording, AM/FM radio, a clock with three alarm sounds, calendar, a nap timer, and three speakers including a subwoofer. Using the patented "bio sync sound", this machine is perfect for business travelers who have to constantly adjust their inner clocks. The "non-linear, rhythmic combination of slowed nature sounds and pulse rates help reset the body's inner clock and promotes relaxation."

And if you're looking for a peaceful night for your infant or small child, Sound Oasis offers a Sleep Bear. This soothing, adorable bear is equipped with six sounds that range from a lullaby or ocean, to being in the womb. It has a timer, and is machine washable. It also includes straps for the crib, or stroller. Suggested retail price is $69.99.

If you prefer a table-side model, the SoundSpa Lullaby SS-3000 by HoMedics is a perfect choice. Offering three sounds (heartbeat, rainforest, and ocean) and three songs (Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Rock-A-Bye Baby, and Brahms) this small machine is perfect for that tiny crib-side table. And while not as cuddly, at $35.00, it is a more affordable choice.

www.homedics.com
www.soundoasis.com
www.marpac.com
www.naturestapestry.com