There are many kinds and forms of soothing music. One general way though to divide compositions designed to relax is to group them according to instrumental tunes and those with vocals. Is it always a better option to listen to purely instrumental selections when you want to relax?
In a lot of cases, what is considered relaxing is based entirely on subjective preferences. This is why some folks listen to slightly upbeat pop songs and still get a general feeling of relaxation. This may also apply to you but it’s worth noting that there are reasons why instrumental tunes are better options.
One reason why tracks without vocals are ideal is because they heighten the subjective experience. Those that do have lyrics tend to control the experience based on the themes that they pursue. In other words, listeners’ feelings, emotions and thoughts are generally dictated by whatever the vocalist says.
There may be no real problem if the lyrics of songs that have the potential to fall under the category of relaxing soothing music carry appropriately calming words. In a lot of cases though, there are songs that carry traditionally slow beats that may be calming but have lyrics that may generate the opposite effect in individuals. Instead of feeling calm, an individual may end up feeling overly melodramatic or even depressed.
There are more reasons to choose instrumental sounds for relaxation. One more good reason is the natural ability of certain instruments to evoke relaxation. The piano, flute or harp for instance, when played following a slow beat piece, automatically generates smooth, calming tunes that almost mimic what nature produces. You would probably not be able to expect the same outcome from an electric guitar even if it is played to accompany slow pop tunes.
The natural calming effects produced by the right instruments also give listeners the chance to visualize better. Listening to instrumental tunes in a cool, quiet environment can help you imagine appropriately calming situations or environments. While listening to gentle piano pieces for example, you can envision yourself lounging under a tree, sitting beside a bubbling brook or being in whatever place you find comforting. Compositions that have lyrics obviously do not give listeners the same opportunity because of how words can limit the imagination.
In modern soothing music, there is no doubt that words can play important roles. In a lot of cases though, you would always prefer to have a completely subjective experience when you want to relax. If you want your imagination to work to your advantage during your chill out moments, you had best settle for instrumental compositions.