You know how we always say I just want someone to listen to me&hellip; Well then, today&rsquo;s your day. World Listening Day is an international celebration aimed at drawing attention to the act of listening as an essential part of human connection, environmental awareness, and creative expression. Launched by the World Listening Project, this day pays tribute to R. Murray Schafer, a pioneer in acoustic ecology who believed that how we listen to the world can shape our relationship with it.
In a fast-paced, digitally saturated world, listening has become a lost skill. We are quick to respond, react, and speak&mdash;but how often do we truly listen? Psychologically, listening plays a crucial role in building meaningful relationships, reducing anxiety, and fostering deeper understanding. Active listening enhances empathy and emotional intelligence, strengthens interpersonal bonds, minimises misunderstandings, and makes people feel genuinely valued and respected. It also plays a pivotal role in mental health therapy and healing, as psychologists note that people don&rsquo;t just want advice&mdash;they want to feel heard. Listening, in this sense, becomes an act of validation.
World Listening Day also draws attention to the importance of environmental listening, a concept championed by R. Murray Schafer through the idea of the "soundscape." Every environment has its unique sound signature, from the gentle rustle of leaves and chirping of birds to the hum of city life. By consciously tuning in to these natural and urban soundscapes, we become more aware of the impact of noise pollution, the disappearance of natural sounds due to climate change, and our collective responsibility to preserve ecological harmony.
Equally important is the practice of listening inwardly. Amid constant external noise, we often overlook our inner voice. Practising mindful listening&mdash;to our breath, thoughts, and emotions&mdash;grounds us. It fosters self-awareness, improves decision-making, and reduces stress, reminding us that the act of listening begins not just with others or nature, but within ourselves.

Celebrate the art of listening to people, to nature, and yourself—this World Listening Day

World Listening Day: Hear More Than Just Words

Celebrate the art of listening to people, to nature, and yourself—this World Listening Day

July 18, 2025 | 21:50 IST