What are the Effects of Music on Sleep?

If you wish you could fall asleep as quickly and easily as a baby, consider adding soft music to your bedtime routine. Babies enjoy lullabies, and adults also benefit from the positive effects of music on sleep. Lullabies (or music in general) and the right frequency can lull you to sleep naturally.

Many studies test this theory, reporting that music can reduce sleeping disorders. With its aid, you have a better chance of regulating an optimal wake-sleep cycle.

The Effects of Music on Sleep

Whenever you play music, the ear converts the sound waves into electrical signals that go to the brain. The vibrations and electric signals prompt the body to react, depending on what you hear. For instance, upbeat tracks often compel you to tap your feet, or hum along. Softer tracks promote calmness, while childhood tunes make you nostalgic.

Aside from emotional and physical reactions, music impacts our mental health, too. In turn, it promotes better sleep quality and counters disruptive thoughts.

Here is a closer look at the effects of music on sleep:

Music Helps You Sleep Better

A study reported that participants who listened to 45 minutes of music before bedtime slept better. They found a significant impact on their sleep quality and sleep efficiency. Some observed these favorable changes from the first day while others took time to adjust.

Either way, most of these participants noticed an improvement in how well and how long they slept. These changes convinced them to add soft music into their bedtime routine.

You Sleep Faster

Does it take you hours to fall asleep naturally? Many people spend their nights tossing and turning because of stress, anxiety, or chronic sleep problems. They might even have trouble sleeping because of night-time noises all around them causing them to wake up by the smallest sound.

At times like these, music can be used to block outside noises. The practice is equally beneficial for silencing your negative thoughts too. Focus on the songs that make you feel good instead of panicking over anxiety-ridden thoughts.

One study demonstrated that listening to music can help you fall asleep faster. The subjects in this study started sleeping within six to thirteen minutes after they played their favorite album. Subsequently, practicing music therapy for sleep allows you to wind down and relax.

Sleep Peacefully

Elevated stress and anxiety activate the flight or fight mode in your mind, which counters your body’s ability to rest. That is why high-stress levels, hormonal changes, and mental health issues are common causes of sleeping disorders.

Studies show that music can reduce cortisol (your stress hormone) levels and manage related stress symptoms. Additionally, music boosts dopamine (your happy hormone) levels, making way for lighter and carefree thoughts. With your favorite mellow music playing, your troubled mind starts becoming calmer and quieter.

As a result, music therapy for sleep can help you wake up refreshed and rejuvenated. The relaxing effects of music on sleep are highly beneficial for individuals with sleep disorders.

Music lets you escape anxious thoughts and improves sleep quality. It also makes it easier for the mind to switch on the sleep mode when you crawl into bed at night.

What if Music Doesn’t Fix Your Sleep Problems?

Get in touch with experts from FusionSleep®. We can conduct a thorough sleep diagnosis and provide a personalized sleep treatment plan. Work with us to sleep better and live healthier.