Smoothy Slim
Photo by Zen Chung Pexels Logo Photo: Zen Chung

What is the best song to help you fall asleep?

Here are some of the most recommended tunes to help you feel sleepy—all can be found for free online: “ Weightless” by Marconi Union. ... “ Watermark” by Enya. ... “ We Can Fly” by Rue du Soleil. ... “ Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy. ... “ Canzonetta Sull'aria” by Mozart. ... “ Nocturne Op. ... “ Electra” by Airstream.

How long does it take for a body detox to work?
How long does it take for a body detox to work?

By around two weeks, the most severe symptoms have typically tapered off or begun to. Stimulant drugs such as meth or cocaine typically have...

Read More »
Why are my two front teeth yellow?
Why are my two front teeth yellow?

That yellow color might be dental plaque. Yellowing of teeth near the gum line might also be an early sign that you are at risk for tooth decay,...

Read More »
Strange purple cocktail removes 2.7lbs every 4 days
Strange purple cocktail removes 2.7lbs every 4 days

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »

Music has the power to transform our moods. There are symphonies that keep us focused during long workdays, banging singles that pump us up to perform during our workouts, and love songs that set the mood for romantic dinners. It's probably no surprise that music should also be a part of our bedtime routines. Research shows that people experiencing insomnia fall asleep faster and have better sleep quality when they listen to music. Another study found that students who listened to 45 minutes of classical music at bedtime had better sleep than those who listened to an audiobook or stayed in silence. The power of music for sleep isn’t surprising to experts. “Relaxing music can slow your heart rate and your breathing and lower your blood pressure—all things that help you fall asleep and stay asleep,” says Michael Breus, PhD, diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine and author of “The Power of When.” There is also the impact it can have on our minds. “Music can be really powerful because it gives you something to focus on other than the fact that you’re lying in bed, trying to fall asleep, and you can’t,” says W. Christopher Winter, MD, president of Charlottesville Neurology and Sleep Medicine and author of The Sleep Solution. “It takes you away from your thoughts and worries.”

How to Use Music for Sleep

To make the most of your pre-bedtime musical moment, you’re going to want to keep a few things in mind. The big one is to choose music that’s on the slower side—Breus recommends between 60 and 80 beats per minute. (This free song BPM tool can help.) “Bedtime is not the time to listen to up-tempo songs," he says. “Save those for when you want to wake up in the morning.” Breus is also a fan of leaving lyrics out of it. “Sticking to instrumentals means you aren’t trying to follow along with the words,” he says. “It helps your brain rest better.” Beyond that, you should feel free to pick something that you enjoy the sound of. “I like the idea of listening to something you’ve heard before,” says Winter. “You won’t focus as much on the song because you already know it.” Be sure to avoid tracks that might trigger negative emotions. (You know, like that song you listened to on repeat after a particularly rough breakup.) Nobody is going to feel ready to sleep if they are being transported to a super emotional time in their lives.

Some other best practices experts recommend:

How can I remove heart palpitations?
How can I remove heart palpitations?

The most appropriate way to treat palpitations at home is to avoid the triggers that cause the symptoms. Reduce stress. Try relaxation techniques,...

Read More »
How can I drop 20 pounds in a month?
How can I drop 20 pounds in a month?

How to Lose 20 Pounds as Fast as Possible Count calories. ... Drink more water. ... Increase your protein intake. ... Reduce your refined carb...

Read More »
Weird “juice ritual” removes 65lbs in weeks
Weird “juice ritual” removes 65lbs in weeks

A potent powdered supplement, based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.

Learn More »

Don’t use earbuds. They can be uncomfortable when you rest your head on your pillow. They can be uncomfortable when you rest your head on your pillow. Make sure your other notifications are turned off if you’re listening on your phone. Nobody needs to hear an email alert go off at midnight. Nobody needs to hear an email alert go off at midnight. Start playing sleepy songs about 30 to 45 minutes before you want to be asleep. This gives the music time to work its magic. This gives the music time to work its magic. Pick a playlist that lasts about 90 minutes. That way you don’t wake up at 3a.m. still hearing the music playing. Finally, if sleep music doesn’t put you to sleep quickly the first night, don’t give up. “Research suggests the impact of listening to music as you fall asleep can get stronger over time,” says Breus. Make it a part of your bedtime ritual and, over the course of a few weeks, you may find the music begins to become a soothing lullaby, calming you into slumber.

Some Sleep Music to Get You Started

1. “Weightless” by Marconi Union

Fun fact: The band worked with sound therapists to nail the relaxing nature of this tune.

How to listen: YouTube, Spotify

2. “Watermark” by Enya

You know there’s no way Enya would be left off this list.

How to listen: YouTube, Spotify

3. “We Can Fly” by Rue du Soleil

This is the kind of song that plays at every serene spa in the world.

How to listen: YouTube, Spotify

4. “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy

The name of this piano piece means moonlight in French, making it the perfect song for sleep.

How to listen: YouTube, Spotify

5. “Canzonetta Sull’aria” by Mozart

While this song does have words, the singing in this opera is so delicate it won’t be a distraction.

How to listen: YouTube

6. “Nocturne Op. 9 No. 2” by Chopin

This is the most lovely piano piece ever created.

How to listen: YouTube, Spotify

7. “Electra” by Airstream

It’s a little more modern than some of the other songs on this list, but just as relaxing.

How to listen: YouTube, Spotify

If you found this article helpful, consider sharing it on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram or emailing it to friends and family members who might benefit from a better night’s sleep. Sharing is caring!

What happens if you drink carrot juice every morning?
What happens if you drink carrot juice every morning?

Carrot juice is incredibly nutritious, providing potassium, several carotenoids, and vitamins A, C, and K. Drinking this veggie juice may help...

Read More »
What is the single best exercise to lose weight?
What is the single best exercise to lose weight?

Here are the 8 best exercises for weight loss. Walking. Walking is one of the best exercises for weight loss — and for good reason. ... Jogging or...

Read More »
Traditional “juice” activates 24/7 fat-burning
Traditional “juice” activates 24/7 fat-burning

A scrumptious morning smoothy based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.

Learn More »
Can you make a living selling photos?
Can you make a living selling photos?

You can continue to sell photos time and time again, and make a good living if you have a large portfolio. Commissions vary depending on which of...

Read More »
Tasty breakfast juice melts 59lbs of wobbly fat
Tasty breakfast juice melts 59lbs of wobbly fat

A scrumptious morning smoothy based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.

Learn More »
Why should u not wash your face in the shower?
Why should u not wash your face in the shower?

“The alleged risk is that hot water dehydrates the skin, the heat from hot water and steam may dilate and burst sensitive blood vessels in the...

Read More »