

Dr Gaelen ‘Thomas’ Dickson
The Science of Music for Sleep
Music Psychology Expert (Researcher | Entrepreneur)
PhD UNSW | Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
PhD candidate at the University of New South Wales, specialising in the use of music as a sleep aid and primary author of “How Does Music Aid Sleep? Literature Review”. I’ve combined music psychology research, and app development to build a world-first sleep app that composes relaxing music for sleep. My research interests include music for sleep, music for focus, music for relaxation and music for peak performance. I am keen to give actionable and evidence-based advice around using music as a tool to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals.


Can’t Sleep App
Can’t Sleep App was invented by Dr Thomas Dickson, an Australian expert in music and sleep psychology. The artificially intelligent music helps you sleep by distracting you from wakeful thoughts, calming your mood and relaxing your body. Simply choose your soundscape in the app, enjoy new relaxing music and you’ll wake up tomorrow having forgotten falling asleep. Try it now Free for 7-days and sleep better tonight!


Download Free 30 Day Music For Sleep Prescription
- Spotify Playlist
- Book Summary
- Sleep Checklist
- How to choose the best music for you
- Guide to using Can’t Sleep App
- and much more
Concepts
Some of Thomas’concepts around music, cognition and emotion.
Low Distraction Music vs Normal Music vs Ambience


Distraction From Melodies


Distraction From Musical Transitions


Distraction From Song Transitions


Music Takes Atleast 30 Days Before It Improves Sleep Quality


Colourful Notes


Colour | Label | Segment | Application Examples |
Red | Simulating | High Engagement & Stimulating | Dance, Exercise |
Orange | Accompanying | Moderate Engagement & Stimulating | Driving, Cooking |
Yellow | Focusing | Low Engagement & Stimulating | Study, Problem Solving, Concentration |
White | Filling | High Engagement & Unemotional | Muzak, White noise |
Grey | Ambience | Moderate Engagement & Unemotional | Mood music |
Black | Cancelling | Low Engagement & Unemotional | Noise cancelling |
Green | Visualising | High Engagement & Sedating | Recollections, Daydreaming |
Blue | Relaxing | Moderate Engaging & Sedating | Yoga, Relaxation |
Purple | Meditative | Low Engaging & Sedating | Sleep, Meditation |


Book
Music For Sleep
Soon! I’m currently writing this book. If you are interested sign up and I’ll let you know when it’s done. Alternatively, if you are interested you can get a free copy in advance as “beta reader”.
Media
Listen to Dr Thomas Dickson discuss the science of music for sleep on Radio New Zealand.
Dr Thomas Dickson’s Interviews & Appearances
Research
Read Dr Dickson’s Research on the Psychology of Music For Sleep


Contact
Contact Dr Thomas Dickson about his research, mobile app, book or free resources.