A Preliminary and Multidisciplinary Study: The Effect of “Sleeping on The Beehives” and Listening to Bees on Human Anxiety Levels

Abstract

Apihouses are specialized wooden sheds designed to promote relaxation through sensory experiences associated with beehives, such as buzzing sounds and hive air, without direct interaction with bees. While anecdotal evidence suggests calming effects of this experience, scientific validation remains limited. This preliminary study evaluates the potential anxiety-reducing effects of apihouse experiences and bee buzzing sounds. 60 participants were randomly divided into two groups: one exposed to a real apihouse environment and the other to recorded bee buzzing sounds. Anxiety levels were assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Adults (STAI-AD) before and after exposure.
Sound analysis from the apihouse revealed peak frequencies ranging from 237 Hz to 416 Hz, with a mean of 274 Hz, consistent with non-aggressive, normal bee activity. Both groups demonstrated significant reductions in state and trait anxiety levels (p < 0.001), indicating that both the apihouse environment and bee buzzing sounds lead to anxiety alleviation on their own. Within its limitations, this study highlights the therapeutic potential of apihouses and sets the stage for future research to uncover their underlying mechanisms and broader applications in promoting holistic well-being. The observed reduction in anxiety levels paves the way for new research opportunities and suggests further research with a larger sample size and in a more isolated environment is necessary.