Here’s a list of some of the best apps and sounds that have been proven to help improve sleep quality:
Sleep Apps
Calm
Offers guided meditations, sleep stories, and calming sounds. The sleep stories feature has been particularly well-reviewed for helping users relax before bed.
Headspace
Known for its mindfulness and meditation practices, it includes specific sleep content designed to help users fall asleep more easily.
Sleep Cycle
A smart alarm clock that analyses your sleep patterns and wakes you up during the lightest sleep phase, making mornings feel more refreshed.
Insight Timer
Features a vast library of meditation practices, including sleep meditations and ambient sounds. Users appreciate its community feel and variety.
Pzizz
Combines sleep-optimised music, voiceovers, and sound effects to help users fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Its unique algorithm tailors the audio experience.
Relax Melodies
Allows users to create custom soundscapes by mixing different sounds and melodies, including nature sounds, white noise, and calming music.
Noisli
Provides background sounds to improve focus and relaxation. Users can mix and match sounds like rain, wind, and coffee shop ambiance.
Rain Sleep Sounds
Focuses on high-quality nature sounds, including rain, ocean waves, and forest sounds, useful for masking disruptive noises.
Sound Options
1. White Noise
A consistent sound that can mask other disruptive noises. Many apps and machines offer white noise options.
2. Nature Sounds
Sounds such as rain, ocean waves, forest ambiance, and chirping birds are popular for creating a calming environment conducive to sleep.
3. Binaural Beats
These tracks use different frequencies in each ear to promote relaxation and deeper sleep. Some apps like Brain.fm and Insight Timer offer binaural beats specifically for sleep.
4. ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response)
Soft sounds like whispers, tapping, or gentle crinkling can be soothing for some people. There are dedicated ASMR channels on platforms like YouTube.
5. Ambient Music
Slow, instrumental music can help lull you to sleep. Look for playlists designed specifically for sleep on streaming services.
6. Guided Meditations
Audio tracks that guide you through relaxation techniques and visualisations can help prepare your mind for sleep.
Summary
Experimenting with different apps and soundscapes can help you find what works best for your sleep needs. Consistency in using these resources, along with good sleep hygiene practices, can lead to improved sleep quality.
Here are some of the best meditation audios specifically designed for sleep, along with platforms where you can find them:
1. Calm
Sleep Stories: These are narrated bedtime stories designed to relax your mind and help you drift off. Popular ones include “The Secret Garden” and “Blue Gold.”
Guided Meditations: Look for sleep meditations that focus on relaxation and letting go of the day’s stress.
2. Headspace
Sleepcasts: Unique audio experiences that combine gentle soundscapes with a narrative to help you relax and fall asleep. Each Sleepcast is designed to transport you to a peaceful place.
3. Insight Timer
Sleep Meditations: A wide range of guided meditations specifically for sleep, including those by popular instructors like Jason Stephenson and Kelly Howell.
Soundscapes: Ambient sounds and music designed to enhance relaxation and promote sleep.
4. Pzizz
Sleep Mode: Combines soothing voiceovers, music, and sound effects tailored to help you fall asleep quickly and stay asleep longer. The app adapts each session for variety.
5. Sleepy Time
An app that features a selection of sleep meditations and sounds, including nature sounds and white noise specifically designed to help you relax.
6. YouTube Channels
Meditative Mind: Offers guided sleep meditations and relaxing music. Search for their “Sleep Meditation” playlists.
Jason Stephenson: Known for his calming voice, he has a variety of sleep meditations that guide listeners into a restful state.
7. Audible
Look for sleep meditation audiobooks, such as “Sleep Meditation: Guided Meditations for Sleep” by various authors. Many titles focus on relaxation techniques and sleep enhancement.
8. Spotify and Apple Music
Search for playlists like “Sleep Meditations” or “Guided Sleep Meditations.” Many artists create ambient music and guided sessions to promote relaxation.
9. Binaural Beats
Look for specific tracks that use binaural beats designed for sleep. These can be found on platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and specialised apps like Brain.fm.
Summary
These resources offer a variety of meditation audios tailored for sleep, including guided sessions, soundscapes, and bedtime stories. Experiment with different styles to find what resonates with you and helps you achieve a restful night’s sleep.
