The benefits of lo-fi music and how it can help you focus — Calm Blog (2024)

Personal GrowthMental Health

Written By Bryce Kirk

The benefits of lo-fi music and how it can help you focus — Calm Blog (2)

Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, CDCES, MBA

Why is lo-fi music so relaxing? Discover the wellbeing benefits of lo-fi music and why listening to lo-fi music can help you focus and study more efficiently.

Focus. It's something we all need, yet it can feel impossible to attain when we need it most. Enter lo-fi music — a genre of music that focuses on unpolished, rhythmic recordings that resemble jazz, chill-hop, and repetitive beats.

Lo-fi got its start in the 1950s but has recently made a comeback, mostly because its gentle, modest sound is perfect for study sessions, powering through the workdays, or just chilling out.

Lo-fi can help turn a stimulating environment into a relaxing one and boost your focus and productivity when you need it.

What is lo-fi music?

“Lo-fi" is short for "low-fidelity" music, which means it doesn’t have the polished, studio-quality sound of high-fidelity (hi-fi) recordings. Lo-fi is more raw and embraces imperfections, such as ambient noise, static, or the hum of background conversations..

The hallmark of lo-fi music is its ability to create a serene ambiance, making it a worthy companion for those seeking a gentle acoustic backdrop to their daily routine.

4 benefits of lo-fi music

Lo-fi music has been associated with a wide range of benefits for wellbeing, such as:

1. Lo-fi music may boost your mood

Music may have a direct effect on our mood and a good mood might make for a more productive day. Lo-fi’s relaxing beats and soothing rhythms may make the moment feel lighter and brighter.

2. Lo-fi may increase brain activity

The soothing nature of lo-fi music might help with thinking and creativity. It may stimulate brain activity and aids in problem-solving and innovative thinking.

3. Lo-fi may reduce anxiety and promote relaxation

The calming effects of lo-fi music might be a natural remedy, although not a cure, for anxiety and depression. Lo-fi may help to slow down the mind, reduce cortisol levels, and create a peaceful ambiance that can lessen anxious feelings.

4. Lo-fi could improve concentration and keep you in the moment

If your attention span is more sporadic, lo-fi may help. The repetitive beats might make it easier to get into flow state. This can also be helpful if you’re using the music as background for a mindfulness practice. The rhythm of the music may help ground you in the present moment.

How does listening to lo-fi music help you focus or study?

Lo-fi music creates the perfect conditions for focus and concentration because of its mellow, instrumental nature. Whether you're cramming for an exam or tackling a work project, lo-fi music can help in the following ways.

1. Lo-fi music may set the right vibe for focus

Ambiance matters when it comes to productivity and focus. Lo-fi acts as a consistent, non-distracting background noise, similar to white noise, that increases concentration without increasing stress.

💙 Sitting down to accomplish the day’s tasks? Press play on our Lo-Fi Beats playlist. Tunes like Memories are great for setting the mood for focus.

2. Lo-fi music may enhance dopamine production

Research suggests that music may trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. Listening to lo-fi music might boost your mood, which might help motivate you to focus on the task at hand.

💙 Looking for a feel good lo-fi jam? Check out Cloudy from our Lo-Fi Beats playlist.

3. Lo-fi music may help reduce stress when you’re studying or working

Stress can get in the way of focus and productivity. Lo-fi music may help lower stress levels, putting you in a better mental state for concentrating and retaining information.

💙 Feel This Way Again, is a relaxing lo-fi tune from our Lo-Fi Beats playlist.

4. Lo-fi music may improve cognitive performance

Some studies have shown that background music like lo-fi may improve cognitive performance, enhancing the tasks that require memory recall and problem-solving skills. The mild, steady rhythm of lo-fi music may help maintain a steady cognitive tempo, facilitating stronger focus and retention.

💙 Check out Infinite Lo-Fi for Focus the next time you’re looking for some music to help you concentrate.

5. Lo-fi music isn’t as distracting as other music

As much as we all love singing along to our favorite songs, lyrics can be distracting. Lo-fi skips the lyrics, focuses on rhythm. In that way lo-fi music may help you concentrate on what's in front of you and limit distractions.

Benefits of lo-fi music FAQs

Is lo-fi good for mental health?

Yes, lo-fi music may be good for mental health! Lo-fi music is known for its calming effects, which may ease stress and anxiety. Its steady rhythm can also improve focus, which can lead to a better mood.

What are the disadvantages of lo-fi?

Some might find lo-fi’s repetitive nature uninteresting or distracting. If you're someone who enjoys lyrics, classical music, or a more dynamic beat, lo-fi might not be for you. You might be someone who prefers silence, which may be best for focus.

What does lo-fi do to your brain?

Lo-fi music may reduce stress levels and encourage the release of dopamine, a chemical associated with feelings of pleasure.

Does listening to lo-fi help you sleep better?

Lo-fi may help you sleep better! Lo-fi music's soft, rhythmic patterns may create a calming atmosphere, which might help some people fall asleep more easily. While some prefer lo-fi, others might prefer complete silence or different types of music or background noise.

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RegularlySometimesRarelyNever

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` if (contentWrapperRow && contentWrapperCol) { contentWrapperCol.classList.add('cutoff') contentWrapperRow.insertAdjacentHTML('beforeend', cutoffBtnHtml); cutoffBtn = contentWrapperRow.querySelector('.cutoff__btn__btn'); cutoffBtn.addEventListener('click', () => { contentWrapperCol.classList.remove('cutoff') cutoffBtn.parentElement.remove() if (typeof amplitude != 'undefined') { amplitude.track('Blog : Continue Reading : Clicked', eventProperties); } }) } } // Paragraphs seen, continue reading button seen const paras = document.querySelectorAll('.blog-item-content p'); const pFirst = paras[0] const pMiddle = paras[Math.round(paras.length / 2)] const pLast = paras[paras.length - 2] const eventStops = { first: false, middle: false, last: false, cutoff: false } function throttle(fn, wait) { var time = Date.now(); return function() { if ((time + wait - Date.now()) < 0) { fn(); time = Date.now(); } } } function isInViewport(element, eventKey) { if (element) { var bounding = element.getBoundingClientRect(); if ( bounding.top >= 0 && bounding.left >= 0 && bounding.right <= (window.innerWidth || document.documentElement.clientWidth) && bounding.bottom <= (window.innerHeight || document.documentElement.clientHeight) && !eventStops[eventKey] ) { eventStops[eventKey] = true return true; } } } const sendEvents = order => { if (order === 'cutoff') { dataLayer.push({'event': 'continue_reading_seen'}) if (typeof amplitude != 'undefined') amplitude.track('Blog : Continue Reading : Seen', eventProperties); } else { dataLayer.push({'event': `${order}_paragraph`}) if (typeof amplitude != 'undefined') amplitude.track(`Blog : Article Scroll : ${capitalizeFirstLetter(order)} Paragraph`, eventProperties); } } const checkParaSendEvent = () => { if (isInViewport(pFirst, 'first')) sendEvents('first'); if (isInViewport(pMiddle, 'middle')) sendEvents('middle'); if (isInViewport(pLast, 'last')) sendEvents('last'); if (isInViewport(cutoffBtn, 'cutoff')) sendEvents('cutoff') } const capitalizeFirstLetter = (string) => { return string.charAt(0).toUpperCase() + string.slice(1); } window.addEventListener('scroll', throttle(checkParaSendEvent, 150)) // Topic Targeted App Audio Track CTAs const ctaToReplace = document.querySelectorAll('img[src*="try-calm-for-free.png"]')[0] const appAudioData = [ { title: 'sleep_quality', html: `

5 tools you need to sleep better tonight

  • Improve your sleep with these science-backed tips
  • From neuroscientist and sleep expert, Dr. Matthew Walker
  • Bite-sized audio lessons for long-term results

Sleep Better

Easy Tips for Better Sleep

Dr. Mathew Walker Neuroscientist and Sleep Expert
  • Don't Try, and Don't Worry! 4 min
  • Your Sleep Type 5 min
  • Sleep and Your Mood 4 min
  • Your Sleep Environment 4 min
  • Sleeping with Your Phone 4 min

Sleep Better

`, urls: ['/blog/vivid-dreams','/blog/how-to-prevent-nightmares','/blog/why-dont-i-remember-my-dreams','/blog/stress-dreams','/blog/waking-up-tired','/blog/how-to-get-more-deep-sleep','/blog/how-to-get-over-jet-lag','/blog/sleep-anxiety','/blog/screen-time-before-bed'] }, { title: 'grounding', html: `

Get grounded in three minutes

  • Calm your body and mind using your breath
  • From former monk and bestselling author, Jay Shetty
  • Short audio practice to help you find balance

Calm Your Mind

Jay Shetty Author, Coach, Former Monk

Calm Your Mind

`, urls: ['/blog/5-4-3-2-1-a-simple-exercise-to-calm-the-mind','/blog/how-to-stop-intrusive-thoughts','/blog/box-breathing','/blog/driving-anxiety','/blog/grounding-techniques','/blog/how-to-stop-overthinking'] }, { title: 'fall_asleep', html: `

Ready to fall asleep with ease tonight?

  • Quiet your mind and body using this guided exercise
  • From mindfulness specialist Chibs Okereke
  • Soothing audio session to unwind into sleep

Get To Sleep

Chibs Okereke Mindfulness Instructor

Get To Sleep

`, urls: ['/blog/racing-thoughts-at-night','/blog/why-do-i-keep-waking-up-at-3am','/blog/breathing-exercises-for-sleep'] }, { title: 'work_stress', html: `

How to beat work stress & burnout like a boss

  • Relieve stress and anxiety quickly during the workday
  • From stress and burnout specialist, Chibs Okereke
  • Short exercises to help you find your calm

Take a Break

Quick Breaks

Chibs Okereke Mindfulness Instructor
  • Managing Overwhelm 5 min
  • 60 Second Reboot 1 min
  • Step Away From the Computer 4 min
  • Let's Unplug 4 min

Take a Break

`, urls: ['/blog/how-to-recover-from-burnout','/blog/beat-burnout','/blog/sunday-scaries'] }, { title: 'sleep_sounds', html: `

The music you need for better sleep

  • Get more restful sleep with delta wave music
  • Produced with Binaural Beats, scientifically shown to enhance sleep
  • 8 hours of music for deep sleep

Get Deep Sleep

Delta Waves for Deep Sleep

Curated by experts at Calm
  • Halting Thoughts (Delta 145 Hz - 147 Hz) 60 min
  • Slow Release (Delta Binaural) 60 min
  • Careful Mind (Delta 83 Hz - 84 Hz) 60 min
  • Calm Body (Delta Binaural) 59 min

Get Deep Sleep

`, urls: ['/blog/what-is-green-noise','/blog/sounds-to-help-you-sleep','/blog/best-music-to-fall-asleep-to'] }, { title: 'anxiety', html: `

The 11 anti-anxiety tools you need in your life

  • Relieve anxiety with these game-changing tools
  • From clinical psychologist & online educator, Dr. Julie Smith
  • Bite-sized audio sessions for long-term relief

Overcome Anxiety

Overcome Stress and Anxiety

Dr. Julie Smith Clinical Psychologist and Educator
  • Calm Your Heart with Deeper Breaths 3 min
  • Challenge Your Negative Thoughts 4 min
  • Guided Breathing to Release Tension 10 min
  • Distance Yourself From Anxious Thoughts 5 min
  • Create Emotional Safety 4 min

Overcome Anxiety

`, urls: ['/blog/panic-attack-vs-anxiety-attack','/blog/how-to-calm-anxiety-attack','/blog/breathing-exercises-for-anxiety','/blog/feeling-anxious-for-no-reason','/blog/flight-anxiety-tips','/blog/affirmations-for-anxiety'] }, { title: 'relationships', html: `

How to cultivate happier and healthier relationships

  • Strengthen your connections (even during conflict)
  • From the Head of Mindfulness at Calm
  • 12 audio sessions to create lasting change

Improve Your Relationships

Relationships with Others Series

Tamara Levitt Head of Mindfulness at Calm
  • Nurturing Relationships 10 min
  • Holding Space 10 min
  • Listening 10 min
  • Boundaries 10 min
  • Empathy 10 min

Improve Your Relationships

`, urls: ['/blog/how-to-overcome-social-anxiety','/blog/questions-to-ask-to-get-to-know-someone','/blog/taking-a-break-in-a-relationship','/blog/anxiety-in-relationships','/blog/long-distance-relationship','/blog/emotional-connection','/blog/first-date-nerves'] } ] appAudioData.forEach(instance => { if (instance.urls.includes(currentPath) && ctaToReplace) { const ctaToReplaceWrapper = ctaToReplace.closest('.sqs-row') if (ctaToReplaceWrapper) { ctaToReplaceWrapper.insertAdjacentHTML('beforebegin', instance.html) ctaToReplaceWrapper.remove() } return } })}); // Audio Sample Functionality Codewindow.onload = function() { // Replace 'audioFileURL' with the direct link to your audio file const audioFileURL = 'https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57b5ef68c534a5cc06edc769/t/65a78d86aa34af6af3428203/1705479566073/SLEP_0184_DreamWithMe_EN_2CH_MK_20230802_HomepageCutdown.mp3/original/SLEP_0184_DreamWithMe_EN_2CH_MK_20230802_HomepageCutdown.mp3'; // Getting the play/pause button by its ID and icons by their IDs const playPauseButton = document.getElementById('harry-styles-sleep-story-play-pause-button'); const playIcon = document.getElementById('harry-styles-sleep-story-play-icon'); const pauseIcon = document.getElementById('harry-styles-sleep-story-pause-icon'); // Check if elements exist if (playPauseButton && playIcon && pauseIcon) { // Initially hide the pause icon pauseIcon.style.display = 'none'; // Creating the audio object const audio = new Audio(audioFileURL); // Event listener for play/pause button playPauseButton.addEventListener('click', function() { if (audio.paused) { audio.play(); playIcon.style.display = 'none'; pauseIcon.style.display = 'block'; } else { audio.pause(); playIcon.style.display = 'block'; pauseIcon.style.display = 'none'; } }); // Dispatch the custom event after the player is ready let e = new Event("amplitudeaudioloaded"); document.dispatchEvent(e); }};

The benefits of lo-fi music and how it can help you focus — Calm Blog (2024)

FAQs

How does lofi music help you focus? ›

Lo-fi music isn't as distracting as other music

As much as we all love singing along to our favorite songs, lyrics can be distracting. Lo-fi skips the lyrics, focuses on rhythm. In that way lo-fi music may help you concentrate on what's in front of you and limit distractions.

Why is lofi music calming? ›

With its gentle melodies and ambient sound, Lo-fi music generates a calm ambiance that helps you concentrate, lowers stress, and boosts your general well-being. Lo-fi music has a slow tempo and is repetitive in nature. The slow tempo is meant to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

Does lofi music have words? ›

Lo-fi music is considered an “alternative” genre of music—and for good reason. It's not only easy to listen to, but it's also easy to produce since there are no lyrics.

What are the benefits of sleeping to lofi music? ›

Studies have shown that listening to lo-fi music can help relax both the mind and body to help usher in sleep. The repetitiveness in the sounds and laidback melodies and rhythms can help the body enter a more chill state. “Lo-fi music has moderate tempo and a mellowness,” explains Rinaldi.

Is lofi music good for ADHD? ›

Listening to music can help to alleviate ADHD symptoms, likely through increasing dopamine. With its instrumental, repetitive, grainy sounds, lo-fi music may improve focus in those with ADHD.

What is the psychology behind lofi music? ›

Studies have shown that the synchronization of brainwaves with music can have a profound impact on concentration, memory retention and overall cognitive performance! And the calming, repetitive nature of lofi music does help to facilitate that synchronization, making an excellent genre for studying!

Is lofi good for stress? ›

Lo-fi music can reduce stress and enhance focus, resulting in quality study sessions. Lo-fi and other musical styles can help students reduce distractions while boosting brain activity.

Why is lofi so appealing? ›

Lo-fi music is an especially popular choice because it provides a consistent drum beat and mood to engulf themselves in. Background music can also act as a stimulant for listeners.

What is the point of LOFI? ›

Another great benefit is its consistency. Unlike other genres of music, Lofi tracks tend to have a similar tempo and rhythm, which can help to create a consistent atmosphere. This means that the music won't suddenly change and distract you, allowing you to maintain your focus.

Is lofi music good for your brain? ›

Lofi music has become increasingly popular in recent years, and research has shown that it has positive effects on the brain and mental health. Lofi music has been found to improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, enhance creativity, and promote relaxation.

Is lofi music therapy? ›

Lofi stands for low fidelity, contrasting with high fidelity. It is a blend of multiple genres, including jazz, hip-hop electronic and house. The rhythmic patterns in Lofi music make it calm and soothing. It has therapeutic effects that promote relaxation, a calm aura, healing, and focus.

Why is lofi so famous? ›

Lo-fi began to be recognized as a style of popular music in the 1990s, when it became alternately referred to as DIY music (from "do it yourself"). Some subsets of lo-fi music have become popular for their perceived nostalgic and/or relaxing qualities, which originate from the imperfections that define the genre.

Why do people listen to LOFI? ›

While ASMR includes sounds that provoke physical relaxation, lo-fi tunes are an artistic creation that may include elements of ASMR, but go a lot further. Thousands of people use Lo-Fi to concentrate on tasks like study, work or just to relax.

Is lofi music good for working? ›

Lo-fi also has calming and mellow tones that help reduce stress and anxiety levels. The low-intensity soundscapes of Lo-fi music help to create a relaxed atmosphere that encourages creativity and productivity.

Does lofi girl music help you study? ›

Music like LOFI can produce the same amount of serotonin and dopamine as eating a bar of chocolate, and if you're feeling unable to study or focus for a long period of time, it can be very useful. This in turn makes you feel relaxed, and when you are relaxed, that is when productivity is at its highest.

Does lofi music increase productivity? ›

Lo-fi music is a steady rhythm that can improve focus and concentration, which leads to increased productivity, and is typically used for studying, relaxing, and working; there are no reasons not to give it a try.

Is lofi or classical music better for studying? ›

Research indicates that both genres can improve focus and cognitive performance, though they may do so in different ways. Classical music often leads to significant improvements in memory and learning, while Lofi music is particularly effective at reducing stress and maintaining long-term concentration.

What are the effects of lofi music? ›

Lofi music, in particular, has been found to have a calming effect on the brain, which can be helpful for individuals who experience anxiety or stress. Lofi music is often used as a form of relaxation therapy and can be helpful for individuals who have difficulty falling asleep.

Why does lofi sound so good? ›

The style is renowned for its laid-back, mellow tone and repeated beats, which can help block out outside noise and promote tranquilly. Lo-fi music's lower frequencies and absence of lyrics are thought to help certain individuals focus more effectively.

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