Falling asleep can, ironically, be the most stressful part of the day for many of us. Winding down often turns into being wound up as we struggle to get settled and drift off.
If you’ve already invested in a field’s worth of French lavender and counted infinite sheep, it may be time to try something new.
We’ve chosen 20 songs that will help you drift off, whatever your style.
Laura Marling – Ghosts
This song is mellow yet upbeat, and will soothe you into a relaxed state. Its lyrics are nice and simple, so you don’t really need to pay attention to it, just enjoy the melodies.
Fleet Foxes – White Winter Hymnal
As the title suggests, this song has a hymn-like quality to it. It’s a light song, but with heavy layers of rich notes, leaving you feeling drowsy in the best way possible.
Anything by Sigur Ros
Sigur Ros are just incredible, so we’d suggest listening to any of their wonderful albums. This Icelandic band really know how to lull even the most stressed bodies into sleep, so enjoy.
The XX – Intro
This is a fantastic one for those who struggle to sleep. It’s a relatively simple song so there’s nothing to focus on other than gently drifting off.
The Velvet Underground – Pale Blue Eyes
This song has beautiful lyrics so is great to listen to if you’re someone who does actually pay attention to the words!
Massive Attack – Teardrop
The music video is of a fetus in the womb and this blend of hypnotic beat and angelic vocals will have you sleeping like a baby in no time.
Anything by Ludovico Einaudi
…is guaranteed to chill you out. This piano music swells dramatically at times, but is also full of gentle tones that will relax you. Let it lull you as you get ready for bed and be prepared to drift off.
Fleetwood Mac – Albatross
Famous for its appearance in M&S ads, this song is oddly rich and sumptuous. If ‘luxury’was a song, this would be it. You’ll instantly feel better while you’re counting those sheep…
The Weeknd – Earned It
This might be the soundtrack of some 50 Shades action, but it’s also great for other things you can do in bed – sleep! Immerse yourself in smoky vocals and let yourself fall into a slumber.
Agnes Obel – Riverside
The notes of this song are just beautiful. Really, truly beautiful. You’ll find yourself totally lost in the rhythm and will soon be drifting off to sleep with a calm, empty mind.
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James Blake – Retrograde
This song isn’t as raw and sad as some of his others, so you won’t find yourself suddenly upset about something in the back of your mind! It will gently clear your mind of tension, letting you relax.
Bon Iver – Literally anything!
Our favorites include Holocene and Skinny Love, but it’s probably best to listen to everything he’s ever made and decide for yourself.
Lykke Li – I Know Places
Lykke is an incredible artist and this is one of her best hits. It’s melancholic in a way that will relax your mind and body without leaving you feeling upset.
Portishead – Roads
Most songs by Portishead would fit the bill as ones to fall asleep to, but this particular track lulls you into a calm and restful state with its rolling, deep synth bass and orchestral accompaniment.
Regina Spektor – Us
This song became famous in 500 Days of Summer but is wonderful in its own right. With gorgeous lyrics and a calming beat, you’ll be ready for sleep pretty soon.
Oh Wonder – Without You
The lyrics are relaxing while the beat is poppy, so give it a go and see how it goes. It might be too much for some people’s minds to process, but have a listen and figure out what style of music is best for you.
Alexi Murdoch – Breathe
In case you needed a reminder of just how important it is to breathe deeply and gently to relax your body and mind, this simple track is one to listen to.
Enya – Caribbean Blue
Enya is absolute gold when it comes to drifting off to sleep. This song will lift your mood while lulling you into a state of deep relaxation.
Coldplay – Everglow
What sleep-soundtrack would be complete with some classic Coldplay? This song is so emotive but calming at the same time – perfect for winding down to.
Damien Rice – Cold Water
If you need rocking to sleep, let this duet take you in its hands and sway you from side to side. It even has some crazy reverse monk chanting hidden message at the end.
