Music for Sleep - How Music Can Help You Rest Better

According to the results of a recent study, listening to music while you sleep could help you to be able to not only achieve a better and more restful sleep, but it also may improve your memory. Researchers have found that when certain sounds are played during sleep, and when those sounds are properly synchronized with the brain’s slow oscillation rhythms of a sleeping person, it can help to enhance those oscillations and the result is that they will be better rested and their memory will improve.

It is believed that this works because the nervous system – that is, the brain and the nerves throughout the body – respond to music when it is being heard. This response includes a change in the areas of the brain that are active. Therefore, by using the right music while sleeping, the amplitude of the brain’s oscillations can result. Furthermore, people who sleep to this music will also experience a greater slow wave sleep length. This means that they will receive a better, deeper sleep.

That level of sleep is vital for being able to retain memory. Therefore, when the oscillations improve and when deep sleep is maintained for a longer period of time, the result is a boost in memory.

According to the University of Tübingen’s Dr. Jan Born, one of the study’s researchers in Germany, “The beauty lies in the simplicity of applying auditory stimulation at low intensities.” This suggests that it is simple, ethical, and practical for people to be able to suggest this therapy for enhancing the effectiveness of sleep. It is especially the case when compared to certain other therapies such as electrical stimulation or some powerful medications.

Beyond the scientific side of music for sleep, many people simply find that the impact of certain songs and sounds on their mood is enough to help them to achieve a better sleep. For example, listening to music designed specifically to be played during sleep or, alternately, meditation music, can help to calm the body and mind after a long and active day.

Stress levels can be lowered so that the individual can fall asleep more quickly. Moreover, if that person happens to wake during the night and the music is still playing, then it will help to maintain the feeling of calm and prevent the mind from becoming too “active” and alert. After a few nights, the mind will start to associate the sound of the song with falling asleep and it can become more effective over time.