If you’ve had three Starbucks Doubleshots and your entire body seems to be vibrating, but you still can’t seem to focus, you might just need to listen to some music. Or at least, the right type of music. Go on any campus and you'll see students studying with earbuds in. Does that mean that what they're listening to is actually helping them work? Studies do show that music aids students in focusing on their work, but this is usually when they’re listening to instrumental music or music without any lyrics. So will blasting Kendrick Lamar’s newest album help you? Probably not. But here are some of my favorite instrumental playlists that are actually perfect for studying, writing, sleeping, relaxing or simply nourishing your soul.
Movie Scores:
1. Lord of the Rings
Let your heart soar, along with your mind, as you return to the Shire.
2. Star Wars
In a galaxy far far away...you might actually get your assignments done. Here are some of the most relaxing selections from the original and more recent scores.
3. Disney
If you're a Disney fan, here's a huge compilation of instrumental songs from the movies just overflowing with pixie dust. Another great one for studying is this gorgeous Finding Nemo video.
4. Studio Ghibli
Not only is the artwork in these films stunning, but the music carries you away into new fantastic lands.
5. Harry Potter
The most magical study playlist you can find.
Video Game Music:
6. Animal Crossing
Nostalgia in a video. If you ever stayed up all night playing games on your GameCube, this one's for you.
7. Zelda
Video game music is designed to keep you focused on the task at hand and the score of any Zelda game will ensure you do just that.
8. Skyrim
You know those moments in Skyrim when there are no enemies attacking you and you're just exploring the land and taking in all its splendor? This is that in a video.
9. Kingdom Hearts
I never even played Kingdom Hearts and I still listen to its score. It's absolutely beautiful.
Inspirational Music:
If you need some creative inspiration
10. Lofi
For those who like hip hop, this playlist is calming but still has a nice beat you can bob your head to.
11. Fantasy
This one may or may not trigger daydreams of sword fights. Fair warning.
12. Rain sounds
And if all else fails, block out outside noises with a realistic thunderstorm, all for you.
Nothing is worse than studying in excruciating silence or trying to focus with people talking around you. So give these playlists a try and see if your finals aren't just a little easier (and less stressful) this year.
