Hanuman Chalisa isn't just for worship. Many people recite it to calm their minds and reduce stress. Learn about the benefits of listening to it.

Hanuman Chalisa to put your baby to sleep.

When a baby cries incessantly, parents try various methods to calm them down. Some rock them in their arms, others sing lullabies. Meanwhile, on social media, a woman named Sarah Jane Ho shared a unique experience with her 4-month-old baby.

In her post, she wrote that when her baby becomes irritable and cries, she plays the Hanuman Chalisa, and according to her, the baby calms down within seconds and falls asleep shortly after. Sara also shared that she learned about the Hanuman Chalisa from her Indian friends. While this is a personal experience, it has once again sparked interest in the Hanuman Chalisa. Let's explore what kind of effect listening to it can have on the mind and body.

What is the reason for the child becoming calm after listening to Hanuman Chalisa?

In Sarah Jane Ho's experience, her child calms down quickly after reciting the Hanuman Chalisa. It's not scientifically possible to determine if the mere presence of the Hanuman Chalisa is the reason. However, the Hanuman Chalisa has a steady rhythm and repetitive sound, which can distract the child from crying or restlessness to the sound. Experts also recommend using soft music, singing, talking, and soft rhythmic sounds to calm children.

Why does a slow and consistent rhythm calm a baby?

Young children's brains constantly respond to new sounds and objects. When they hear consistent and predictable rhythms, rather than loud or changing sounds, they may find their surroundings less stimulating. Research has also found that melodies like lullabies can induce calming responses in children. Some studies have shown a decrease in activity and heart rate in young children when listening to lullabies or their mother's voice. This calm state may help children drift off to sleep.

Why do familiar voices and songs soothe a baby?

Babies learn to recognize not just melodies, but also patterns of sound. If a sound or song is played repeatedly, it can become familiar to a child. One study of 8- and 10-month-old babies found that familiar songs can help soothe them more than other sounds. Therefore, playing the same soft lullaby, mother's voice, or a calming text to a child every day can gradually associate that sound with comfort.

Why does a child fall asleep while listening to sounds?

As a child gradually transitions from crying or over-excitement to a calm state, their activity slows and their body begins to relax. Keeping the room dimly lit, quiet, and playing a soft, steady sound can help the child fall asleep. For young children, lullabies or soothing music can be included as part of their bedtime routine. However, music or the Hanuman Chalisa should not be mistaken for a sleeping aid.

Will Hanuman Chalisa have the same effect on every child?

Not necessarily. What Sarah Jane Ho describes is her child's personal experience, so it can't be taken as a definitive result for every child. One child may enjoy the Hanuman Chalisa, another may find lullabies or their mother's voice more calming, and another may prefer a completely quiet room. If a child is crying incessantly and unusually, it's important to consider their other needs rather than simply trying to soothe them with a sound.