Does Music Help Us Sleep Better?

It’s no secret that music can play a part in inspiring our emotions – it can give you a boost first thing in the morning, make you dance around your kitchen in the evening, and put a smile on your face at pretty much any time of day (we say as we are dancing like no one is watching).

But when it comes to getting to sleep, music can also help to soothe us into a peaceful sleep. Including it as part of your routine can make a big difference and we’ve broken down how below.

Creating a relaxing environment

At night many of us struggle to switch off following a full-on day. This is why it makes it especially important to create a calm, relaxing environment in order to give us a soothing atmosphere to switch off at the end of the day.

Music can help us do this by creating a sense of calm and helping us to relax. Several studies suggest that music enhances sleep because of its effects on the regulation of hormones, including the stress hormone cortisol.

Health benefits

Naturally, our bodies will respond to the rhythm and tempo of the music we listen to, meaning that slow, soft, repetitive music will actually slow our heartbeats and allow for deeper, calmer breathing.

In terms of our overall health music improves sleep through calming parts of the autonomic nervous system, leading to slower breathing, lower heart rate, and reduced blood pressure.

How to Make Music Part of Your Sleep Hygiene

Music can be a great part of a healthy sleep routine. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while incorporating music into your evening routine. (Goodbye 12 step skincare routine, hello sleep dance party).

Make it a habit: Routine is great for sleep. Create evening rituals that give the body sufficient time to wind down, incorporating music in a way that’s calming and consistent.

Find enjoyable songs: If a pre-made playlist isn’t working, try making a mix of songs that you find enjoyable. While many people benefit from songs with a slower tempo, others may find relaxation with more upbeat music. Feel free to experiment and see what works best for you.

Be careful with headphones: Headphones and earbuds may cause damage to the ear canal while sleeping if the volume is too high. Sleeping with earbuds can also lead to a build-up of earwax and may increase the risk of ear infections. Instead, try setting up a small stereo or speaker somewhere close to the bed.

Looking for some playlist inspiration? Head to our Sleepeezee Spotify for more!