Since time immemorial, music has been used to put babies to sleep. In fact, famous lullabies have been translated into many different languages and are widely sang by mothers to put babies to sleep.
Even science agrees with this practice, showing that babies, children, and even adults sleep better after listening to soothing melodies. The essentials are still needed though, for example, a top-quality Canadian mattress is super important.
As such, music is considered a powerful calming instrument, not only for babies but also for children and adults too. Therefore, many experts prescribe music to people seeking a solution for their sleep problems.
Causes of Sleep Disorders
However, before discussing further the relationship between music and sleep, let us first understand why you can’t sleep in the first place. While mattresses and sleep are undoubtedly connected, some other causes of sleep disorder are:
- Mental health issues such as depression and similar disorder
- Excessive intake of caffeine and sugar
- Sleep environment condition (loud neighborhood, bright lights, bedbugs, etc.)
- Stress and anxiety
- Excessively playing computer games before bedtime
- Excessive exposure to the blue light in smartphones, tablets, and laptops
Resolving these common causes will help increase the quality of sleep. The connection between mattresses and sleep should also be taken seriously, as you can’t really get enough restful sleep on an uncomfortable mattress.
As for music therapy, there’s some scientific evidence that proves that music can improve your sleep quality. For example, one study showed that adults who listened to music for 45 minutes reported having better sleep quality and decreased the time it took them to fall asleep.
Another study of women with insomnia symptoms reported they usually took 27-69 minutes to fall asleep, but after listening to the selected playlist before bedtime for ten consecutive nights, it only took them from 6 to 13 minutes.
Why Does Music Enhance Sleep?
Several studies show that music improves sleep because it creates an effect on the regulation of hormones. For example, listening to music decreases your cortisol levels, the chemical responsible for stress and alertness.
When the brain interprets the melodies in music, it triggered a physical reaction within the body that promotes sleep.
Are There Recommended Music Genres for Sleep?
Experts recommend classical music as the ideal choice to listen to before bedtime. However, according to the German researcher, Laszlo Harmat who studied the effects of music on sleep, new age or electronic music are the best options for people who want to increase their sleep quality.
On the other hand, according to Lyz Cooper of the British Academy of Sound Therapy, songs with 60 beats per minute (BPM) or less helps the brain to relax. She also recommends instrumental music.
How to Integrate Music to Sleeping Routine
Here are few steps to make music part of your sleeping habits.
- Create a playlist of your choice. Choose music that makes you feel good and avoid those that evoke strong emotions.
- Allot at least 1 hour of music relaxation before bedtime. Also, avoid using smartphones while listening to music, as doing so will defeat its purpose.
- Use speakers rather than headphones or earphones. The use of earphones or headphone can cause eardrum damage.
- Be consistent with your evening ritual.
Conclusion
Music and sleep are deeply connected to each other, just like the connection between mattresses and sleep. After all, music has been used for centuries to help babies sleep. So, the next time you’re having a tough time falling asleep, why don’t you consider putting on some relaxing music?