Don't you think that a quiet environment is best for reading a book?

In fact, listening to music while reading can actually help you concentrate better, making reading more enjoyable and efficient.

Reading background music is especially effective in places where noise is a concern or when you want to change your mood.

In this article, we will explain from a scientific perspective why music is effective in improving concentration while reading , and also introduce specific music genres that are best for reading .

We also introduce soothing music that utilizes alpha waves , so if you're having trouble concentrating on reading or want to immerse yourself more in the world of books, be sure to use this article as a reference to find the perfect reading environment for you .

The effect of alpha (α) waves on reading

One of the great benefits of listening to music while reading is that it stimulates certain "brain waves" that have a positive effect on your brain.

These are alpha (α) waves and theta (θ) waves .

Brain waves have different rhythms depending on the brain's state of activity, and can be likened to the "types of signals" emitted by the brain.

Each brainwave has a different effect on our mind and body.

Alpha (α) waves are the brain waves that occur when we are relaxed but at the same time highly focused.

This is most often seen when you are quiet with your eyes closed or when you are immersed in a hobby.
When these alpha waves are produced, the brain becomes more active, and it is said that concentration, inspiration, and creativity increase.

This is the ideal state for immersing yourself deeply in the world of what you are reading and gaining a deeper understanding of the content.

Theta (theta) waves are also brain waves that appear in a relaxed state, but they are seen in a state of even deeper relaxation than alpha waves, that is, a state of "drowsiness" similar to dozing off or dreaming.

It is said to be a state in which memories are easily organized and new ideas are easily generated, and it often occurs before falling asleep or during meditation.

When reading, it supports memory, creativity and helps you gain deeper insights.

When we are excited or stressed in our daily lives, brain waves such as gamma (γ) waves and beta (β) waves appear.

It is difficult to concentrate on reading in these states, but by using soothing music, you can intentionally bring your brain waves closer to alpha or theta waves, creating the optimal mental state for reading.

The pros and cons of listening to music while reading

Playing music while you read can be a powerful tool to improve your concentration.

But not all music is suitable for reading.

Here we will explain the main benefits of reading while listening to music and some things to be aware of.

*merit
Improved concentration	Certain genres of music can help you block out background noise and focus your mind on what you're reading, especially instrumental music without lyrics or nature sounds, which allow your brain to process the information at hand without being distracted by words.
Relaxation and stress reduction	Calm music can slow your heart rate and have a relaxing effect, making long reading sessions less mentally demanding and more enjoyable.
Staying motivated	Elevating music can also help you stay motivated and prevent boredom while reading, especially when reading difficult or boring texts.
Memory support	Research has also shown that reading while listening to music can help you remember what you read more easily, as it becomes associated with the music.
Disadvantages and points to note
Avoid music with lyrics	Music with lyrics can interfere with comprehension of what you're reading because your brain is trying to process the words.
Music that can be distracting	Music that is too fast-paced or too emotional can actually distract you.
Be careful of the volume	If the volume is too loud, it will not only strain your ears but also interfere with your concentration while reading. Adjust the volume to a comfortable level.

Relaxing music that won't distract you while reading is ideal

We mentioned that listening to music generates alpha and theta waves, making it easier to concentrate on reading, but that doesn't mean that just any music will do.

Up-tempo, intense music like rock or club music, or music with Japanese lyrics, will likely distract you and make it difficult to concentrate on reading.

The important thing when choosing music is to choose music that will put you in a relaxed state when you listen to it, but that won't interfere with your reading .

Below are some recommended genres:

1. Slow-tempo classical or jazz music without lyrics

Slow-tempo music without lyrics, such as classical or jazz, is ideal for reading.
Adjusting the volume to a moderate level can be particularly relaxing and effective.

A study that examined the incidence of alpha waves depending on the type of music found that among classical music, music by Mozart and Beethoven in particular tends to generate a lot of alpha waves.

If you're having trouble choosing background music to listen to while reading, why not give this a try?

2. Great for relaxation! Natural sounds with "1/f fluctuation"

In addition to classical music, natural sounds are also said to be effective in generating alpha waves and theta waves.

Natural sounds are exactly what they sound like: sounds that can be heard in nature.

• The sound of waves crashing

• The sound of falling rain

• Birds chirping

• the murmur of the river

Such sounds apply.

These sounds have a healing and relaxing effect, and the fact that they are often used in healing music is proof of this.

Furthermore, the irregular rhythm of these natural sounds is called "1/f fluctuation," and this 1/f fluctuation has a great relaxing effect on people.

This is why it's easier to fall asleep on rainy days and why listening to the sound of a river can be soothing.

Relaxation means that alpha and theta waves are being emitted, which is of course a good time for reading.

If you are reluctant to listen to jazz or classical music while reading, we recommend reading surrounded by the sounds of nature, such as by opening a window or playing soothing music.

It's important to find a reading environment that suits you

Music has a tremendous effect on people.

Sometimes it brightens up gloomy moods, and sometimes it brings a sense of relaxation to the heart.

The power of music will surely be useful when reading as well.

Of course, some people can concentrate better in silence, but by listening to music and increasing your concentration , you may be able to immerse yourself in the world of the book and enjoy the story more deeply.

If you find yourself unable to concentrate on reading, why not use this article as a reference to find a relaxing reading environment that suits you?