OK…OK.I’m a huge proponent of lullabies for my son, so much so, that I created my own lullaby channel. We use them nightly and have been doing so for 5 years. It helps him fall asleep quickly, and I often follow suit.
While lullabies are traditionally used to help babies, young children, and older children fall asleep, adults should not underestimate the power of a good lullaby. Lullabies for adults can be calming and soothing, and listening to them can bring a host of benefits.
From reducing stress and anxiety to helping with insomnia, here are 10 compelling reasons why adults should consider adding lullabies to their nightly routine. Not only will it help you relax and drift off to sleep, but the different melodies can also provide a therapeutic wind-down for the day.
**Please read my series on ‘Better Sleep for Dads.’
Definition of a lullaby
A lullaby is a soothing song traditionally used to calm and soothe babies to sleep. While there is no strict definition of a lullaby, the word ‘lullaby’ is thought to have originated from the Irish word ‘lullabáí’, which means ‘to rock’ or ‘to lull’.
Lullabies can be found in different parts of the world, with many cultures having their own versions in different languages. Some versions include gentle humming, while others are accompanied by a soft instrumental version, depending on the culture. Historically, lullabies have been used to help babies fall asleep. While this is still the case today, many adults also find lullabies to be therapeutic and helpful for inducing a state of calm and relaxation.
The Science Behind Lullabies and Sleep
Research has indicated that music, particularly lullabies, has a significant impact on sleep quality. This is because melodious tunes, such as lullabies, can trigger the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, known for its role in eliciting feelings of pleasure and happiness.
Furthermore, the rhythmic patterns and soft tones common in lullabies can help to regulate heart rate, slow breathing, and reduce blood pressure, all of which can facilitate a relaxed state conducive to sleep.
10 Benefits of listening to lullabies for adults
There are many benefits to listening to lullabies for adults too. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, enhance mood, relieve pain, and provide comfort.
Reducing stress and anxiety
– One of the most common reasons why adults listen to lullabies is to help reduce stress and anxiety. Many lullabies are soothing, and the music can help to soothe the mind, while the lyrics(if any) can be used as a form of self-talk. The more stressed out you are, the harder it is to fall asleep. Listening to lullabies can help lower your stress levels and help you to fall asleep faster.
Improving sleep quality
– Another common reason why adults listen to lullabies is to help improve sleep quality. While sleep is highly individualized, many adults experience challenges falling asleep. This can be due to several reasons, including stress, anxiety, discomfort, noise pollution, or even thinking too much before going to bed.
Enhancing mood
– Listening to lullabies can also help enhance mood. The more positive and relaxed you are, the better your mood will be, which can positively impact your day. In fact, you can even use lullabies to get yourself into a positive state of mind before a meeting or an important event.
Relieving pain
– Some studies have shown that listening to lullabies can help relieve pain, especially when combined with other relaxation techniques. If you have chronic pain, you can use lullabies to help switch your focus away from your pain and towards something more positive. – This research bids true for children as well.
Providing comfort
– Lullabies can also provide comfort. This can be helpful for both adults and children, who may feel sad or experience anxiety over situations like a death in the family, divorce, or another traumatic event.
Creating Positive Sleep Associations
-Lullabies can help to create positive associations with bedtime, making the prospect of sleep more appealing.
Boosting Memory and Cognitive Functions
-As surprising as it may sound, lullabies can enhance memory and cognitive functions. This is because music engages the brain, stimulating neural connections that can play a powerful force to boost memory and cognitive abilities.
Promoting Physical Health
-The stress-reducing effects of lullabies can have a positive impact on your physical health. By lowering stress levels, lullabies can potentially reduce the risk of stress-related health issues like heart disease and high blood pressure. Papa’s gonna get healthy!
Providing a Medium for Self-expression
– A beautiful song can provide an avenue for self-expression, allowing you to connect with your emotions on a deeper level.
Promoting Mindfulness
-Finally, lullabies can promote mindfulness and positive emotions, encouraging you to stay present in the moment. This can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation and sleep.
Finding the Right Nursery Rhymes
When looking for the right lullaby, it can be helpful to know a few things about the person you want to lull, as well as the purpose behind listening to the lullaby. Here are some general suggestions to consider when choosing a lullaby.
Gender – In general, women are more likely to use lullabies to calm their babies, while men are more likely to sing lullabies to their children. However, this isn’t a rule you have to follow. Instead, think about what song resonates with you, and the lyrics that are meaningful to you. This goes the same way with scrolling to find just the right lullaby for you.
Age – There aren’t many rules when it comes to the age of the person you want to lull. You can use lullabies for infants and toddlers, but you can also use lullabies for adults as well.
Mood – The mood you want to induce with the lullaby can also impact your selection. For example, if you want to induce a feeling of excitement, you probably don’t want to choose a lullaby that induces a feeling of calmness and serenity. Instead, think about what kind of song you want to play for your loved one, and what message you want to convey with the lullaby.
Classic Lullabies for Adults
When it comes to lullabies, it’s not just about “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” or “Hushabye Mountain”. Many well-known songs have been transformed into soothing lullabies, making them perfect for adults seeking to relax and unwind. Here are some examples:
- “Amazing Grace” – This popular song can serve as a calming lullaby, with its gentle melody and comforting lyrics.
- “Frère Jacques” – While primarily known as a children’s song, the repetitive melody and soothing rhythm of this classic French lullaby make it an ideal adult lullaby.
- “Brahms’ Lullaby” – Also known as “Lullaby and Goodnight,” this classic lullaby by Johannes Brahms is renowned for its calming, sleep-inducing effects.
- “Good Night” – Originally performed by The Beatles, this soothing song is perfect for winding down and preparing for sleep.
- “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” – This classic song from Disney’s Cinderella can help to soothe the mind and evoke pleasant dreams.
The Healing Power of Lullabies: A Symphony for Serenity
In the quiet moments before sleep, when the world hushes to a whisper and the stars twinkle softly, there exists a timeless melody that transcends age and resonates with the human soul – the lullaby. While conventionally associated with cradling a fussy infant into a peaceful slumber, lullabies have a clandestine power, one that extends far beyond the nursery, reaching adults seeking solace and tranquility.
Deep Sleep…
Note: As a dad speaking to friends, I’d suggest giving lullabies a try. They might seem a bit old-school, but trust me, the calming effects are totally worth it. And hey, no one needs to know your secret to a good night’s sleep!
Yes, sure lullabies are mostly for kids. Adults can use meditation channels or white noise to fall asleep, but I personally think that lullaby channels aimed at infants to preschoolers should not be shunned. These channels include the most well-known lullabies like the Mozart classics, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, and many well-known traditional lullabies that we are all familiar with.
Look at it as music therapy. It’s a great way to get rid of stress in your daily life and incorporate it into your bedtime routine. If you have a sleep disorder or have another good reason to use these simple songs, I highly suggest that you make your own playlist of songs that would suit you.
Psst…From one dad to another… If you do listen to lullabies, I would not bring it up at the next ‘TGIF beer night’ with the bros. Cheers to a good night’s sleep!! Sweet Dreams!
Hey You!! “At our Facebook group for fathers, you’ll find a safe and supportive space where you can share your experiences, ask for advice, and connect with other dads from around the world. Join us today!!”
