When you’re getting a massage, you probably want to relax and unwind. Music can help. The right music can create a calm, therapeutic atmosphere that enhances the benefits of your massage.
But not all music is created equal. Some music is too upbeat or distracting to help you relax. That’s why it’s important to find the right artists to help you get the most out of your massage. This article explores some of the best massage music artists for creating a relaxing and therapeutic environment. We’ll focus on artists who create calming melodies with relaxing instrumentation, perfect for setting the mood.
The science of relaxing music
It’s no secret that music can be relaxing, but why? What is it about certain sounds and rhythms that can make our muscles loosen and our minds quiet?
How music affects your body
Relaxing music can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. That’s because music affects the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and serotonin, which play a role in how your body responds to stress, and may be related to the effects of healing frequencies.
The harmonies, instruments, and tempos in music all play a role in how it affects your body. Slow, simple music is generally more relaxing than fast, complex music.
How music affects your mind
Music has a powerful effect on our mood and emotions. It can bring up personal memories and feelings of nostalgia, which can be very relaxing for some people. Music can also reduce stress and anxiety.
Calming music can help you focus on the present moment and practice mindfulness. The right music can help you detach from your worries and just be.
Ambient Music Masters
When it comes to massage music, I’m a big fan of ambient music, and here are some of the best ambient music artists out there.
Brian Eno: The Pioneer of Ambient Soundscapes
Brian Eno is a genius when it comes to ambient music. He really put ambient music on the map, and his album “Ambient 1: Music For Airports” is a perfect example of his work. His music is subtle and atmospheric, and it doesn’t get in the way. It’s just there, creating a mood.
That’s why Brian Eno’s music is perfect for massage. It fades into the background and lets you relax. It’s calming and unobtrusive, which is exactly what you want when you’re trying to unwind and let go of stress.
Other Notable Ambient Artists
There are a lot of other great ambient artists out there, too. If you like Brian Eno, you might also like:
- Stars of the Lid
- Aphex Twin (his ambient stuff, anyway)
- Steve Roach
- Harold Budd
These artists all have their own unique approaches to creating calming soundscapes, but they all share a common goal: to create music that helps you relax and de-stress.
Neo-Classical and Instrumental Gems
If you’re looking for massage music that’s a little less new-agey, you might want to turn to instrumental music and neo-classical composers. Here are a few artists to consider.
Claude Debussy: Impressionistic Soundscapes
Claude Debussy was a French composer who wrote in the late 1800s and early 1900s. He’s known for his impressionistic style, which means his music evokes a feeling or an image rather than telling a specific story.
Debussy’s “Préludes” are a great example of calming classical music. He often used pentatonic scales (think of the black keys on a piano) and graceful, flowing melodies. His music has a relaxing and ethereal quality that makes it perfect for massage therapy.
Other Instrumental Artists
Many other artists are creating neo-classical or instrumental music that’s perfect for massage. For example, some modern composers draw inspiration from Debussy, so you can find music with that same calming, impressionistic style.
These artists each have their unique approaches to creating instrumental music that can help people relax and unwind. You might want to explore different artists to find the music that works best for you.
Contemporary calming artists
While classical music is a popular choice, many contemporary artists create music that’s perfect for massage. Here are a few of my favorites:
Angus & Julia Stone: Harmonious Folk
Brother and sister duo Angus & Julia Stone make mellow folk music with calming harmonies and gentle instrumentation. Their sound is perfect for helping clients relax and let go. You may know them from their popular song “Big Jet Plane.”
Beach House: Dream Pop Serenity
Dream pop band Beach House creates ethereal, atmospheric soundscapes that can transport you to another world. Their album “Depression Cherry” is a particularly calming example of their style. The band’s dreamy vocals and layered sounds are perfect for creating a serene massage environment.
Other Contemporary Artists
There are many other contemporary artists creating relaxing music. Bon Iver’s atmospheric soundscapes can be incredibly calming, and Moses Sumney’s haunting vocals are perfect for creating a sense of introspection. And for a familiar, comforting sound, you can’t go wrong with Norah Jones. Her smooth voice and jazzy piano playing are always a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best music to listen to during a massage?
The “best” music for a massage is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, generally, instrumental music with a slow tempo (around 60-80 beats per minute) is ideal. Nature sounds, ambient soundscapes, classical pieces, and specifically designed “massage music” are all popular choices. The goal is to create a relaxing and calming atmosphere.
What kind of music do they play in massage parlors?
Most professional massage parlors play a carefully curated selection of calming and unobtrusive music. This often includes instrumental pieces, nature sounds (like rain or ocean waves), new-age compositions, or soft jazz. The music is typically chosen to minimize distractions and enhance the overall relaxation experience.
Do massage therapists play music?
Yes, most massage therapists play music during sessions. Music is an integral part of creating a relaxing and therapeutic environment. It helps to mask external noises, promote relaxation, and encourage the client to disconnect from daily stresses. Some therapists even tailor the music to the specific needs and preferences of their clients.
What is massage music called?
While there isn’t one universally agreed-upon term, “massage music” typically refers to instrumental or ambient music specifically designed to promote relaxation and enhance the massage experience, and you can even find copyright free meditation music to use. Other common terms include “relaxation music,” “spa music,” “meditation music,” or simply “calming music.” These genres share the common goal of creating a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
Closing Thoughts
From Deuter’s soothing melodies to Liquid Mind’s ambient soundscapes, many artists and genres can help create the perfect massage environment. The key is to choose music that your client enjoys and that complements the therapeutic goals of the session.
Here are a few tips for creating a relaxing massage playlist:
- Experiment with different artists and genres to find what works best for you and your clients.
- Consider factors like tempo, instrumentation, and mood when selecting music.
- Don’t be afraid to mix things up to keep the experience fresh and engaging.
Music can be a powerful tool for enhancing the massage experience. By carefully curating your massage playlists, you can create a calming and therapeutic environment that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances the overall well-being of your clients.