According to Dr. David Lewis-Hodgson, from Mindlab International, which conducted the research, the song (Scroll to the bottom to Listen to the Most Relaxing Song Ever:) ‘Weightless’ induced the greatest relaxation, higher than any other music tested. This eight minute song is a beautiful combination of arranged harmonies, rhythms and bass lines. The song helps to slow the heart rate, reduce blood pressure and lower levels of cortisol. ‘Weightless’ features guitar, piano and electronic samples of natural soundscapes. The track is so effective at inducing sleep, motorists have now been warned they should not listen to it whilst driving.
The study was conducted on 40 women, who were connected to sensors and had been given challenging puzzles to complete against the clock in order to induce a level of stress. Different songs were then played, to test their heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and brain activity.
The results showed that the song Weightless was 11 per cent more relaxing than any other song and even caused drowsiness among women in the lab.It induced a 65 per cent reduction in overall anxiety and brought them to a level 35 per cent lower than their usual resting rates.
Weightless is written by Marconi Union – a British musical trio Richard Talbot, Jamie Crossley and Duncan Meadows.Their music incorporates elements of electronica, ambient, jazz and dub. The band worked with sound therapists to get advice on how to make the most effective use of harmonies, rhythms and bass lines to induce relaxation.
Here is the song:
