Can Music Help our Sleep?

I’ve always remembered parents, teachers, and friends all saying that one of the best things you can do for your sleep is to sleep in a quiet environment. I’m sure many of you have also been told this and have been following that logic, but how true is it really? Can we actually fall asleep faster and maximize our sleep efficiency from listening to music?

The short answer is yes you absolutely can! However, it has to be a certain kind of music. Blasting ACDC or Taylor Swift as you try and get precious rest isn’t exactly the best idea. According to the National Sleep Foundation, you want to look for slow tunes, some common categories include folk, classical, and jazz music. If you want to be even more specific, they recommend beats around 60-80 BPM (beats per minute). Make sure to avoid songs with lyrics as they can keep your brain active interpreting the words, keeping you awake for longer.

You may be wondering, how is music able to help us sleep better? Music can directly affect our parasympathetic nervous system, the part of our nervous system that slows our heart rate and relaxes the body, commonly referred to as the rest and digest system. When listening to slower beats your parasympathetic system follows, slowing your heart rate and breathing, lowering your blood pressure, and getting your body ready to rest.

Even more important than your build up to sleep is the mattress you’re sleeping on! At Fox Mattress all of our mattresses are built locally, and all materials sourced in the USA! Come on by or give us a call to find the perfect mattress for you!