Sometimes you just need to relax and take a breather. Trust me, as a stressed college student, I’ve been there PLENTY of times. One of my personal favorite ways to calm my nerves and clear my head is to listen to calming music from my special “zen” playlist. If you don’t have one yourself, why don’t you take a little sneak peek at mine!
- “Retrograde”- James Blake
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This song has the perfect jazzy melody that will melt your stress away. However, it has an upbeat undertone to it that makes you feel a sense of euphoria, just enough to lift your spirits. James Blake also makes great songs to listen to while working. I highly recommend the album The Color in Anything.
- “Sunday Morning”- The Velvet Underground
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Can’t beat the classics! This classic rock anthem sounds just like a lullaby you would sing to a baby to get it to sleep…or a 22 year old. Trying to beat insomnia or not, this is a great song to play to relieve any sort of tension.
- “Eternal Sunshine”- Jhene Aiko
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This may not be a typical relaxing, stress relieving song, but the song is about looking back on all of the positive sides of life and is filled with uplifting lyrics, perfect for increasing gratitude and the perfect aid to meditation.
- “Surf”- Mac Miller
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From his posthumous album Circles, this soothing song is a perfect listen for stressful days. From his smooth vocals to the soothing acoustic guitar in the background, this song is perfect for those much needed self care nights where you just need to chill!
- “Over the Rainbow”- Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
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If this song isn’t on your relaxation playlist, are you even relaxing? Known for his soothing vocals and happy music, Kamakawiwoʻole perfectly covers the iconic song from the classic film The Wizard of Oz. If your happy place is the beach, this is the perfect relaxation and meditation song for you.
- “Ocean Eyes”-Billie Eilish
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Billie Eilish is known for writing sad songs to listen to for a good cry, however, the first time I heard this song I was transported to another dimension. Maybe it was her soft calming voice or the warmth of the (sad) song, but since my first time hearing it, it has been one of my go to’s for relaxation.
- “Window”- Joji
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Just like James Blake’s “Retrograde”, this song contains smooth, soothing vocals to lift your stress and tension, but also has an uplifting, happy beat that gives you a comforting sense of euphoria.