New research reveals the best Christmas songs to listen to if you need to relax this stressful festive season.
The holiday season is for many, a time of heightened stress. Financial pressures, family dynamics, and the endless quest for the perfect gift often turn December into a blur of tension. According to a recent survey conducted by MedStar Health, 74% of Americans said Christmas is stressful – and 55% said it’s the most stressful holiday of the year.
Research shows that slow-tempo songs (around 60–70 BPM) are particularly effective for inducing relaxation, as they mirror the heart’s natural rhythm in a calm state. This principle was highlighted in a study involving the song Weightless by Marconi Union, specifically composed at 60 BPM to facilitate stress relief. The track demonstrated a 65% reduction in stress and anxiety levels during trials, confirming the physiological impact of slow, consistent tempos.
To help you find your seasonal serenity, the mental health experts at The Support Network analyzed the most popular Christmas songs, identifying those with the slowest and most soothing BPMs.
Most relaxing Christmas songs
In first place as the most relaxing Christmas song is A Winter’s Tale by Queen, which has a slow tempo of 54 BPM. Released in 1995, this ballad’s soft melody and gentle pacing make it perfect for creating a calm atmosphere during the busy holiday season.
Following is Little Saint Nick by Pentatonix, with a tempo of 68 BPM. This 2018 a cappella rendition tones down the original upbeat energy, offering a smoother, more relaxing take on the classic.
Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth by David Bowie and Bing Crosby takes third place with 72 BPM. Recorded in 1977, this duet blends the two traditional songs into a calm, harmonious arrangement.
Next is Nat King Cole’s The Christmas Song at 73 BPM. First recorded in 1946, this timeless track is soft and soothing, perfect for relaxing during the holidays.
Tied at 73 BPM is Whitney Houston’s Do You Hear What I Hear?. Released in 1992, Whitney’s rendition combines her powerful voice with a steady, calming tempo. Christina Aguilera’s version of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas shares the same BPM, offering a reflective and tranquil performance on her 2000 holiday album.
Top of My List by Jordin Sparks also clocks in at 73 BPM. This 2015 release brings heartfelt lyrics and a mellow rhythm to your holiday playlist.
Tony Bennett’s O Christmas Tree comes in at 74 BPM. Released in 2008, this smooth jazz version of the carol is both elegant and calming.
Somewhere in My Memory by John Williams, also at 74 BPM, is a soft, nostalgic instrumental from the Home Alone soundtrack released in 1990.
Lastly, I Don’t Wanna Spend One More Christmas Without You by NSYNC rounds out the list at 74 BPM. This 1998 ballad offers a heartfelt and relaxing melody to wind down after a long day.
Least relaxing Christmas songs
At the other end of the spectrum is Christmas Without You by OneRepublic, the least relaxing Christmas song with a rapid 207 BPM. Released in 2020, its fast tempo creates a high-energy vibe that’s better suited to lively moments.
Mele Kalikimaka by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters follows closely at 203 BPM. This 1950 track is cheerful but far too fast-paced for a calming effect.
Also at 203 BPM is Shakin’ Stevens’ Merry Christmas Everyone. This 1985 classic is fun and festive but not relaxing.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Andy Williams comes in at 202 BPM. Its lively brass and fast rhythm make it better for a party than for unwinding.
At 192 BPM, Ariana Grande’s Santa Tell Me brings a playful energy that doesn’t encourage relaxation.Bring Me Love by John Legend, with 191 BPM, adds soul to the season but maintains a pace more suited to excitement than calm.
Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24 by Trans-Siberian Orchestra moves at 186 BPM, combining classical and rock elements for an intense and energetic sound. Please Come Home for Christmas by Eagles, at 183 BPM, blends emotion with a faster tempo.
Chris Rea’s Driving Home for Christmas, with its 180 BPM tempo, captures the busy feeling of holiday travel. Finally, Christina Aguilera’s Angels We Have Heard on High finishes the list at 176 BPM.
A spokesperson from the Support Network commented on the findings, “To put these figures into perspective, the average BPM for a Christmas song is 119.16. Iconic songs with tempos below this, like Wham!’s ‘Last Christmas’ at 108 BPM and Michael Bublé’s ‘It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas’ at 95 BPM, lean toward the relaxing side with their softer, reflective feel.”
“On the other hand, tracks with tempos above the average, such as Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’ at 150 BPM, bring festive energy and excitement.”
“If someone’s looking to enhance relaxation alongside the slower Christmas songs in our analysis, they can try pairing the listening experience with a breathing technique. Practice deep breathing by inhaling slowly for four counts, holding for four counts, and exhaling for four counts.”
