Sleep Playlists: Can Music Affect Your Sleep?

Science says it can. Here’s what you need to know to get better rest.

At Double Stitch, we believe in the importance of quality, restful sleep. It’s about comfortable bedding of course, but it’s also about an overall lifestyle of positive sleep hygiene. While there are many factors that can influence the quality of your sleep, sound is often overlooked as an important element of overall bedroom environment.

Can music really affect your quality of rest? It’s a topic we’re tackling today as we explore the various benefits of drifting off to sleep while listening to music and share 5 sleep playlists you can try tonight.

The Benefits of Falling Asleep to Music

There’s a reason that throughout history, parents have turned to lullabies to soothe babies into slumber. Music is a powerful and versatile tool that can influence our emotions, thoughts, and even our physical state. When it comes to sleep, music can offer several benefits:

1. Stress Reduction

Listening to soothing music can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. The right music can calm your mind, slow your heart rate, and relax your muscles, making it easier to transition into a peaceful slumber.

2. Enhanced Sleep Quality

Music can help improve the overall quality of your sleep, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper, more restful cycles. The result? Feeling more refreshed and energized in the morning.

3. Distraction from Noise

For those who live in noisy environments or have trouble falling asleep due to external noises, music can serve as a buffer. By providing a consistent and gentle sound, it can mask disruptive noises and create a more peaceful sleeping environment.

4. Regulation of Breathing and Heart Rate

Certain types of music, particularly those with a slow tempo and consistent rhythm, can help regulate your breathing and heart rate. This can lead to a more relaxed state and a smoother transition into sleep.

5. Personalized Relaxation

One of the most significant benefits of using music for sleep is its personalization. You can choose the type of music that resonates with you, whether it's classical, ambient, or even your favorite lullabies from childhood. And there are those who enjoy falling asleep to upbeat, fast-tempo music…and guess what. That’s ok, too.

That’s the beauty of music—there’s something for everyone, and it is this customization that allows you to create a sleep-inducing environment tailored to your preferences.

Sleep Playlists to Help You Fall Asleep

To help you get started, we thought we’d share a few carefully curated playlists from the Double Stitch team, created with songs that are available on major music streaming services. You can use these lists as-is or mix and match to create a custom playlist that can help you achieve a better night's sleep. It’s up to you!

1. Classical Serenity

This playlist features some of the most serene classical compositions. The gentle and melodic nature of these pieces can create a tranquil atmosphere conducive to peaceful sleep.

• Piano Sonata No. 14 "Moonlight Sonata," Beethoven
• Clair de Lune, Debussy
• Ave Maria, Schubert
• Gymnopédie No. 1, Satie
• Adagio for Strings, Barber

2. Nature's Lullaby

If you prefer the soothing sounds of nature, this playlist is for you. Nature sounds can transport you to a peaceful outdoor setting, making it easier to drift into slumber.

• Rainforest Spa Music, Relaxing Radiance
• Spa Music & Ocean Waves, Zen Music Garden
• Campfire Chill Out, Chillhop
• River Sounds with Music, Nature Sounds 
• Deepest Forest, Veronica Howland

3. Ambient Dreamscapes

Ambient music is known for its ability to create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere. These tracks are perfect for those who seek a more ethereal and dream-like bedtime experience.

• Music for Deep Meditation, Various Artists
• Weightless, Marconi Union
• Ambient 1: Music for Airports, Brian Eno
• Elegy for the Arctic, Ludovico Einaudi
• An Ending (Ascent), Brian Eno

4. Calm and Contemporary

This playlist offers a modern twist on bedtime music. These calming contemporary tunes can help you unwind and relax as you prepare for a restful night's sleep.

• Three Little Birds, Bob Marley
• Make You Feel My Love, Adele
• Better Together, Jack Johnson
• Isn't She Lovely, Stevie Wonder
• Over the Rainbow, Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

5. Personalized Bedtime Tunes

Create your own playlist with your favorite calming songs. Whether it's soft rock, indie, instrumental or folk, selecting songs that resonate with your personal taste can be the most effective way to ease into sleep.

Remember that the key to using music for better sleep is personalization. Experiment with different genres and tracks to find the perfect combination that suits your preferences and helps you achieve a peaceful night's sleep.

At Double Stitch, we understand the importance of getting good rest, and we hope these tips enhance your sleep and improve your overall well-being. Sweet dreams!