How to use music to help you sleep better at night

Sleep has a profound effect on our minds and emotions. So, it’s no surprise that recent studies have found a link between listening to music and falling asleep. A study conducted in the United States demonstrated that those patients who were suffering from stress disorders resulting in insomnia, found music to be an effective alternative to sleep medication. But, what is the best way to use music to help sleep? Read on to find out.

Why does music aid sleep?

Sleep deprivation can cause a variety of health problems and is an issue for many people around the world. But, could something as commonplace as music be the key to treating some forms of insomnia?

Scientists have proven that listening to music at least 45 minutes before going to bed helps you to have a relaxing and a peaceful slumber. As a result, you’re able to wake up the next morning fresh and ready to tackle the challenges of the day.

According to scientific research, listening to music directly impacts the parasympathetic system that aids in preparing the brain to sleep and relax. Researchers concluded that music has the ability to calm your heart rate and breathing, decrease your blood pressure and relax your muscles. These biological changes set the scene for you to drift off into a relaxing slumber.

Listening to music or white noise during the night, can also work by drowning out other environmental noises that may interrupt your sleep. For instance, if you live in a bustling neighborhood or your partner snores, you may enjoy listening to music to mask these sounds and stop them from waking you.

The benefits of using music to help sleep

There is no lack of sleep aids and medications out there. However, a lot of sleep medications cause side effects, which some people actually find worse than the insomnia. Sleep medications often leave a person drowsy the next day which can impact their work and daily activities. Music is a great alternative because there are no negative side effects and it is non-habit-forming.

Music is also cheap and easily accessible compared to other insomnia treatments. So, you have nothing to lose by giving it a try.

What music is best for sleep?

Make sure your choice of music is based on personal preference. There is no ‘one size fits all’ sleep music. If you don’t like a style of music it is unlikely to put you into a relaxed state. So, choose music that you enjoy, foremost.

It is best to choose music styles with a slower tempo and a level of consistency. As a general guide, research has found that classical music, folk music, and jazz music are the best options for a bedtime melody. Specifically, music featuring piano, violins, and bells was found to assist with getting to sleep. Research has also shown that soothing songs that have a rhythmic beat as slow as 60 to 80 BPM are perfect for a relaxing sleep. This is why classical music is a popular option.

Another consideration is how loud your music is. Studies have shown that soft music improves sleep quality and quantity. So, keep the volume down to increase relaxation.

Try to make sure that your music does not have large pauses between the tracks. This can cause you to wake up when a new track starts. Continuous music is best. Most specialty sleep CDs or downloads will have continuous music for this reason. If you are using your own music, you might be able to adjust the settings on your media player.

With music, continued use is crucial. The relaxing effect may not be obvious after one night. Continued use can help build an association between certain music and sleep, which will help it to work better and faster night after night.

Please note: This article is not to be used as medical advice. Always speak to a medical professional before using sleep products to make sure they are right for you. This post may contain affiliate links.