20 songs from the 1960s that can reduce your stress instantly
- - 20 songs from the 1960s that can reduce your stress instantly
Ricardo RamirezJanuary 13, 2026 at 8:56 AM
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20 songs from the 1960s that can reduce your stress instantly
The 1960s produced timeless music with remarkable stress-reducing qualities. Songs with slower tempos, gentle melodies, and soothing harmonies can lower heart rate and reduce cortisol levels. These twenty classics combine therapeutic elements with artistic brilliance.
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Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles
George Harrison wrote this optimistic anthem, escaping tense meetings. Gentle acoustic guitar and hopeful lyrics create an instant mood lift.
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Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon & Garfunkel
Art Garfunkel’s ethereal vocals float over gospel-inspired piano. The arrangement activates reward centers while slowing heart rates.
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What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong
Armstrong’s warm voice with uplifting lyrics creates profound peace. Hope triggers positive responses that reduce stress hormones.
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The Sound of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel
Paul Simon’s haunting melody creates meditative states while encouraging mindful listening.
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California Dreamin’ by The Mamas & The Papas
Folk-rock harmonies transport listeners mentally. The dreamy quality activates the parasympathetic nervous system.
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Yesterday by The Beatles
McCartney’s ballad with a string quartet became history’s most covered song. Sad music paradoxically reduces stress.
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Scarborough Fair by Simon & Garfunkel
This traditional English ballad features hypnotic guitar creating trance-like states.
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Moon River by Andy Williams
Mancini’s wistful melody features a waltz tempo that slows the heart rate.
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Daydream by The Lovin’ Spoonful
This feel-good folk-rock tune embodies relaxation. Mental escape reduces perceived stress.
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Imagine by John Lennon
Lennon’s peaceful anthem features simple piano and hopeful messages. Its slow tempo induces meditative states.
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Vinyl Records
At Last by Etta James
James’ tender vocals over lush orchestration trigger oxytocin release, reducing anxiety.
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Both Sides Now by Joni Mitchell
Mitchell’s introspective lyrics encourage reflection. The gentle melody naturally lowers blood pressure.
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Suzanne by Leonard Cohen
Cohen’s hypnotic vocals create intimate intoxication. The meditative quality quiets anxious thoughts.
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I Got You Babe by Sonny & Cher
This duet’s gentle harmonies reduce loneliness-related stress through warmth and sincerity.
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500 Miles by Peter, Paul and Mary
The melancholic melody creates meditative trances. Minimalist arrangements focus attention.
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My Girl by The Temptations
The Motown classic’s gentle rhythm lifts spirits. Positive lyrics trigger serotonin release.
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The Girl from Ipanema by Stan Getz & Astrud Gilberto
This bossa nova classic’s relaxed groove transports listeners. The gentle rhythm slows heart rate.
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Turn! Turn! Turn! by The Byrds
Seeger’s biblical adaptation features jangly guitars. The message about life’s seasons provides perspective.
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For What It’s Worth by Buffalo Springfield
Stills’ mellow protest song features hypnotic guitar. The gentle delivery creates contemplative calm.
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All You Need Is Love by The Beatles
This psychedelic pop anthem delivers simple truth. The universal message reduces stress by reminding listeners what matters.
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The bottom line
These twenty songs combine artistic excellence with therapeutic qualities. Music with slower tempos, gentle melodies, and positive lyrics significantly reduces stress hormones while promoting relaxation. Create a playlist featuring these classics whenever you need peace through timeless music.
Related:
8 popular ’80s songs that take us back
Are these the most overrated Beatles songs of all time?
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Source: “AOL Entertainment”
