More and more people are turning to music to help them relax and sleep better. In particular, long tracks of sleep music, sometimes lasting as long as 8 hours, are becoming increasingly popular.
But why is 8-hour sleep music so popular? What are the benefits, and what kinds of music are most effective? Is there anything to watch out for when using music to sleep?
This article will cover all of these questions and more so you can decide if 8-hour sleep music is right for you.
The science behind sleep music and its benefits
Music affects the brain and body in powerful ways, similar to how chakra sounds and healing frequencies can influence well-being. It’s not just a pleasant sound; it can actually change your brainwave activity and trigger the release of feel-good chemicals.
How music affects the brain and body
Music can influence your brainwave activity, helping you shift from a more alert state (beta waves) to a relaxed state (alpha and theta waves). When you listen to music, your brain also releases neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. These chemicals promote feelings of pleasure and well-being, which can help you unwind before bed.
The tempo, melody, and harmony of music all play a role in inducing calmness. The best tempos for sleep are usually between 60 and 80 beats per minute (BPM). Simple melodies and consonant harmonies are also soothing, as they don’t require a lot of mental effort to process.
Physiological benefits of sleep music
Studies show that listening to relaxing music lowers levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone. This helps your body relax and prepare for sleep. Music also lowers your heart rate and blood pressure, which further calms your cardiovascular system.
What kind of music is best for 8 hours of sleep?
When you’re trying to sleep, not just any music will do. The best music for sleep tends to have a few key characteristics. Here are some kinds of music that can help you drift off and stay asleep:
Ambient Music
Ambient music usually doesn’t have a strong beat or memorable melody. Instead, it focuses on creating a calming atmosphere with layers of sound.
Some popular ambient artists include Brian Eno and Stars of the Lid. You can find lots of playlists on streaming services with ambient music designed for sleep.
Nature Sounds and Soundscapes
Natural sounds, like rain, ocean waves, or a forest at night, have a really calming effect. These sounds can remind us of peaceful places, and research shows they can lower our stress levels.
Combining nature sounds with soft music can be even more effective. Try layering gentle ambient music underneath rain sounds or ocean waves.
Classical and Instrumental Music
Certain classical composers, like Debussy and Satie, are known for their soothing, quiet music. Search for pieces like Debussy’s “Clair de Lune” or Satie’s “Gymnopédies.”
When choosing classical or instrumental music for sleep, it’s important to avoid anything with sudden changes in volume or tempo. Consistently quiet and slow music is usually best.
Make your own 8-hour sleep music playlist
If you’re up for it, you can create an 8-hour playlist of your own. Here’s what to think about.
Playlist length and variety
You’ll want to create a playlist that plays seamlessly for eight hours, so you don’t wake up to switch it off. Make sure the tracks fade into each other, loop, or transition smoothly.
You’ll also want to strike a balance between songs you know well and songs that are new to you. You want the playlist to be interesting enough to keep you engaged, but not so stimulating that it keeps you awake.
Picking music that you like
Play around with different types of music and see what works best for you. You might find you love binaural beats, or you might prefer nature sounds. Experiment! You can also use music streaming apps to find new music that might work for you.
Avoid music with lyrics or strong rhythms
Music with lyrics can be distracting because the words tend to trigger thoughts and keep you awake. Instrumental music is usually better.
Upbeat rhythms can also be disruptive. You’ll want to pick music that’s slow and steady, so you can relax and drift off to sleep.
Making music part of your sleep strategy
If you’re going to try 8-hour sleep music, you’ll want to think about your sleep environment and how to make it as relaxing as possible.
Choosing the right audio equipment
You can listen to sleep music through headphones or speakers. Headphones can be good for blocking out other sounds, but some people find them uncomfortable to wear all night. Sleep headphones are specifically designed to be comfortable while you sleep.
If you choose speakers, you might want to consider a white noise machine with a speaker. With either headphones or speakers, make sure the volume is low enough that it doesn’t disturb your sleep.
Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
Sleep music can be even more effective when you combine it with other relaxation techniques, perhaps alongside a cup of loose leaf tea for sleep. Try meditation, deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation.
It’s also important to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. A consistent sleep schedule helps regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
Minimizing external noise and distractions
Use earplugs or a white noise machine to block out unwanted sounds. There are many different types of earplugs and white noise machines available, so find one that works for you.
Make sure your bedroom is dark and cool. Light and temperature can have a big impact on sleep quality. Blackout curtains and a comfortable thermostat setting can make a big difference.
Potential drawbacks and things to think about
While 8-hour sleep music can be a great tool, there are some things to keep in mind.
- Don’t get too dependent on it. It’s a good idea to experiment with other sleep hygiene techniques. You don’t want to get to a point where you can’t sleep without the music.
- Music may mask underlying sleep disorders. If you’re still having sleep problems, talk to your doctor to see if you might have a sleep disorder.
- Make sure it turns off automatically. Playing music all night long isn’t ideal. Set a timer or use a sleep mode on your device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best music to stay asleep to?
The best music for staying asleep typically features a slow tempo (around 60-80 beats per minute), minimal lyrics, and gentle, consistent melodies. Classical music, ambient soundscapes, nature sounds, and specifically designed sleep music tracks often work well. Experiment to find what soothes you most and helps you drift off and remain asleep.
What is the perfect sleep song?
The “perfect” sleep song is subjective and varies from person to person. However, ideal qualities include a calming melody, a predictable rhythm, and a lack of sudden changes in volume or instrumentation. Many find success with instrumental pieces, nature sounds, or songs that evoke feelings of peace and relaxation. Some popular choices include classical pieces, ambient tracks, or even white noise variations. Ultimately, the perfect sleep song is the one that effectively quiets your mind and promotes restful sleep.
Is listening to music better than a sleeping pill?
For some people, listening to music can be a helpful and natural alternative to sleeping pills. Music can promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and mask distracting noises, potentially improving sleep quality without the side effects associated with medication, much like using essential oil blends for sleep and anxiety relief. However, the effectiveness of music varies. If you struggle with chronic insomnia or a more severe sleep disorder, consult a healthcare professional. They can help determine the best course of action, which may include a combination of lifestyle changes, music therapy, or, in some cases, medication.
To conclude
Listening to 8-hour sleep music may help you unwind before bed, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve the overall quality of your sleep.
The type of music that works best for you is a matter of personal preference. Some people find nature sounds soothing, while others prefer ambient music or even brown noise.
Music can be a powerful tool for relaxation and stress reduction. If you’re looking for a way to improve your sleep and overall well-being, give 8-hour sleep music a try. It could be just the thing you need to drift off to dreamland and wake up feeling refreshed.