Music and Sounds to Help You Sleep

Sounds to Help You Sleep

Research has found that a variety of sounds, tones, and vibrations can help you fall asleep more quickly and sleep more deeply. The topics of sounds and music for sleep are gaining traction in medical circles, but more research needs to be done to gain a precise understanding of the sounds and musical qualities that can best encourage healthy sleep.

Music Therapy

Music therapy is a growing field in medical and psychological therapeutic practice. According to the book Defining Music Therapy, the National Association for Music Therapy (NAMT) defines music therapy as the use of music for accomplishing the aims of therapy: “restoration, maintenance, and improvement of mental and physical health.” Music and sounds that can improve sleep are a part of music therapy, since sound sleep promotes a healthier body and mind.

White Noise

Musical notes aren’t the only sounds for sleep inducement. White noise, or continuous inoffensive noise such as a spinning fan, running water, or electronic static, can cancel out ambient background audio. If you hear sirens, barking dogs, or other environmental sounds that wake you at night, a white noise machine can help.

Alternative “Sound Therapies”

Theories abound on ways music and sounds can improve health, relaxation, and even pain management. Therapies such as binaural therapy and Vibroacoustic (VA) therapy may have some basis in scientific fact, and certainly have passionate followings in alternative medicine. My general rule is: If it works for you, it works. Placebo effect or no, a good nights’ sleep is a good nights’ sleep!

Author Bio: +Michelle Gordon is a sleep expert who researches and writes about sleep and health, and is an online publisher for the latex mattress specialist Latexmattress.org.