Blog Well-being
By Janet Ungless
July 11, 2023 - 18 min read
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According to musicologist Nolan Gasser, we are hardwired to respond to music. Whether it’s a song to rev us up during a hard workout or a playlist to set a moody, seductive ambiance at home, music touches the deepest level of our brain. Just as songs resonate in our minds and with our emotions, they also affect our body’s physiological responses, including those to help us slow down for sleep. And there's science behind which types of music are best. Research has found that songs with around 60 beats per minute, with no sudden changes in tempo or volume, are most conducive to relaxation. The hypothesis is that our heartbeat syncs up with that 60 beats per minute tempo, which is a healthy resting heart rate conducive to sleep. As our heart rate calms, changes in the parasympathetic nervous system, our body’s natural relaxation response, also occur. Our breathing slows, and blood pressure decreases. With a quieted nervous system, production of the stress hormone cortisol decreases, levels of the “feel-good” hormone dopamine increase, and sleep-friendly hormones, including serotonin and oxytocin, are released. Listening to music is a universal path to dissolving those thoughts and worries that keep us awake and help us fall asleep. And who couldn't use a little relaxation-response activation right about now. But what is the most relaxing song, and why? Let’s dig into the effects of music on the brain and body and then look at some of the most relaxing songs ever made. As noted above, music has a profound impact on our minds and bodies, and it can be a powerful tool for relaxation. Here are some ways in which music can help relax the mind and body: Several factors contribute to making a song relaxing. Here are eight key elements that often characterize a relaxing song: It's worth noting that different people have varying preferences when it comes to relaxing music. What one person finds relaxing, another might not. It's essential to explore different genres, styles, and artists to find the music that resonates with your personal sense of relaxation. Of course music preferences are personal. But according to a team of neuroscientists from Mindlab International, the number one most relaxing song in the world is “Weightless,” commissioned by the British Academy of Sound Therapy, whose mission is to improve health and well-being using therapeutic sound, and written by British ambient band Marconi Union. To create the song, the trio collaborated with sound therapists to arrive at a precise combination of harmonies, rhythms, tempos, and baselines to encourage relaxation at a deep level. Researchers at Mindlab found that listening to the 8-minute version of “Weightless” reduced stress and anxiety levels by 65 percent, and “produced a greater state of relaxation than any other music tested to date.” A one-hour extended version of the song was also created for those who need more than eight minutes to fall asleep. According to the lead neuroscientist, “‘Weightless’ was so effective, many [study participants] became drowsy, and I would advise against driving while listening to the song because it could be dangerous.” “Weightless” is not the only relaxing song, however. Other types of music that have shown to promote sleep run the gamut from classical, to Coldplay, to Brian Eno, and Ed Sheeran — quite a diverse bunch! Other favorites of study participants included jazz, house, and instrumental songs. Here are 20 songs that are often found to be relaxing: Remember, this is just a subjective list, and there are many other songs that could be considered relaxing. Each of the songs on the list can be considered relaxing for various reasons, including their soothing melodies, calming instrumentation. This ambient track is specifically designed to induce a state of relaxation, featuring slow, flowing textures and a gentle rhythm. These songs often possess qualities such as slow tempo, soft instrumentation, emotive melodies, and evocative lyrics that contribute to their reputation as relaxing compositions. Various genres and styles of music can be suitable for relaxation, depending on individual preferences. Here are some genres and styles that are commonly associated with relaxation: Classical: Classical music, including compositions by composers like Debussy, Bach, or Mozart, often features soothing melodies, gentle dynamics, and harmonies that can induce a state of calmness. Ambient: Ambient music is designed to create a serene and atmospheric environment. It typically consists of slow-moving, textural sounds and ethereal melodies that promote relaxation and a sense of tranquility. New Age: New Age music incorporates elements of various genres, such as classical, electronic, and world music. It often focuses on creating a soothing and meditative atmosphere, utilizing soft instrumentation, gentle rhythms, and nature-inspired themes. Instrumental: Instrumental music, especially without lyrics, can be conducive to relaxation. It allows listeners to immerse themselves in the calming sounds of instruments like piano, guitar, flute, or violin without the distraction of vocals. Nature sounds: Nature-inspired music or recordings of natural sounds, such as waves, rain, or bird songs, can create a peaceful ambiance and help connect with a sense of tranquility and the outdoors. Meditation and relaxation music: Music specifically composed for meditation, relaxation, or guided imagery often incorporates elements such as ambient textures, slow tempos, and repetitive patterns to induce a state of deep relaxation. Jazz and bossa nova: Smooth jazz or bossa nova music, with its mellow and laid-back rhythms, can create a soothing atmosphere that promotes relaxation. World music: Some world music genres, like Indian classical music, Native American flute, or traditional Japanese music, can feature tranquil melodies and gentle rhythms that evoke a sense of calmness. It's important to keep in mind that these are only general recommendations and everyone's preferences may differ. It can be helpful to try out various genres and artists to discover the music that speaks to you and helps you unwind. You might also consider making your own customized playlists or checking out curated relaxation playlists on streaming services to discover new relaxing music. Yes, music can indeed help you fall asleep. It has been recognized as a helpful tool for promoting relaxation and aiding in the sleep process. Here's how music can assist with sleep: It's important to choose music that you find personally relaxing and enjoyable. Experiment with different genres, artists, or instrumental tracks to discover what works best for you. Additionally, using sleep-specific playlists or ambient soundscapes designed for sleep can enhance the effectiveness of music as a sleep aid. Now that you know the most relaxing song available, you can try listening to different parts of it to see what works best for you. You can also make your own playlist of relaxing songs to listen to before bed, while you work, or when you’re feeling anxious. Everyone is different, so play around with different tunes and musical styles to find the most relaxing songs for you.How can music affect your mind and body?
What makes a song relaxing?
The most relaxing song
20 of the most relaxing songs
What makes these songs relaxing?
"Weightless" by Marconi Union
"Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy
This classical piano piece has a tranquil and dreamlike quality, with its delicate melody and soft dynamics."Spiegel im Spiegel" by Arvo Pärt
This minimalist composition for piano and violin consists of sustained, repetitive patterns that create a sense of serenity and stillness."Gymnopédie No. 1" by Erik Satie
With its simple and delicate piano melody, this piece has a slow tempo and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxation."Watermark" by Enya
Enya's ethereal vocals and atmospheric instrumentation create a peaceful and soothing ambiance that invites relaxation."Adagio for Strings" by Samuel Barber
This emotionally rich orchestral piece has a slow tempo, expressive melodies, and a somber tone that can elicit a sense of tranquility."Moonlight Sonata" by Ludwig van Beethoven
The first movement of this piano sonata features a soft and melancholic melody, evoking a sense of introspection and calm."Ave Maria" by Franz Schubert
This classical vocal piece is often performed in a serene and contemplative manner, with its beautiful melody and peaceful aura."Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin
This iconic rock ballad has a mellow and introspective vibe, combining gentle acoustic guitar passages and emotive vocals."Canon in D" by Johann Pachelbel
This well-known classical composition is characterized by its soothing, repeating chord progression and melodic structure."Imagine" by John Lennon
With its uplifting and hopeful lyrics, soft piano accompaniment, and Lennon's soothing vocals, this song encourages relaxation and peace."Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen
Cohen's emotive vocals and the song's poignant lyrics, combined with a calming musical arrangement, create a peaceful and introspective mood."Fields of Gold" by Sting
This gentle ballad features soothing vocals, acoustic guitar, and poetic lyrics that evoke a sense of tranquility and nostalgia."The Sound of Silence" by Simon & Garfunkel
With its soft harmonies, introspective lyrics, and delicate guitar work, this song has a calming and reflective quality."What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong
Armstrong's warm and soothing voice, coupled with the optimistic lyrics, creates a peaceful and uplifting atmosphere."Yesterday" by The Beatles
This timeless ballad, with its gentle melody and introspective lyrics, has a soothing and nostalgic quality."Time After Time" by Cyndi Lauper
Lauper's tender vocals, combined with the song's sentimental lyrics and mellow instrumentation, make it a relaxing and comforting choice."Hotel California" by Eagles
This iconic rock ballad features a laid-back rhythm, mellow guitar solos, and a serene atmosphere that can induce a sense of relaxation."Blackbird" by The Beatles
With its delicate acoustic guitar picking and gentle vocals, this song has a calming and intimate quality."Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
Kamakawiwo'ole's soothing rendition of this classic song, accompanied by the ukulele, creates a peaceful and heartfelt atmosphere.What kinds of music are good for relaxation?
Can music help you fall asleep?
Using music to relax
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Well-being
Published July 11, 2023
Janet Ungless
Janet Ungless is a health and wellness writer specializing in sleep, meditation, and mindfulness. Her work has been featured on Sleep.com, Crescent Health, Oura, Headspace, and Casper. Janet holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Pennsylvania.
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