For the longest time, people have believed that listening to music, specifically classical compositions like those written by Mozart can make a person more intelligent. However, recent studies have debunked this widespread belief, stating that listening to classical music doesn’t necessarily result in better test scores.
Before you change your work or study habits, though, you should note that there are still some advantages to listening to music while you’re doing productivity tasks like reading or writing.
The Three Benefits of Listening to Music While Reading
Music Helps You Focus
Numerous studies have addressed the critical roles that music plays in a person’s daily life, the first of which is its part in helping people focus on their tasks.
Regardless of whether you spend the bulk of your time studying or working, you likely listen to music at least once daily. Now, did you know that music can help you keep focus? Yes, You read that correctly.
It depends on a person’s preferred genre, artist, and track, but certain musical pieces, such as guitar songs, generally work well as background music, providing an ambient sound that makes even the most harrowing and stressful tasks enjoyable.
Music Motivates You
Have you ever spent hours on end trying to complete a task before a deadline? Or perhaps you’ve had to hunker down to study for a test you’re dreading.
If so, you likely used positive reinforcement as motivation, like a sweet treat after solving a complex problem or an episode of your favorite show after one reading material.
According to research published in 2019, music can act as motivation, too. If you’re not the type to listen to music while reading or working, you can use your favorite tracks as motivation to finish your to-do list.
Music Aids You in Destressing
Studies have actually shown that relaxing music can soothe and help people destress during trying times.
In addition to that, listening to certain genres and tracks can lead to the brain releasing dopamine, a happy chemical that can boost anyone’s moods.
As always, this is conditional. Some studies cite chilling songs, others happy tunes, while some recommend relaxing music for better results.
The Types of Music to Listen to While Reading
Now, keep in mind that not all music is conducive to productivity. There are specific genres and styles that work better when you’re reading or studying, like slow instrumental music, which is known to be soothing and lacks lyrics that can distract you.
Another recommendation is Lo-Fi music, a subgenre of electronic music that shares similarities with downtempo tracks and the chillwave style. Lo-Fi music usually features technical imperfections that create better ambient noise.
You can also try listening to music with 60-70 beats per minute since they have been proven to stimulate learning.
Coda
There are many benefits to listening to music while you’re reading and doing other productivity tasks, such as better moods, improved focus, and greater motivation.
It’s essential to keep in mind, though, that not all music can help with your productivity. Specific music types, such as soft instrumental Christian music, works better compared to rock or heavy metal.
If you’re looking for complementary study music while reading, do check out Prayer Pray. We have an extensive collection of soft, soothing music that can aid you in focusing and doing better with your work. Browse through our shop today!