Music is more than just entertainment; it is a powerful tool that can impact our emotional and physical well-being. 432 Hz is often associated with the frequency of the planet, called the Schumann resonance, which is about 7.83 Hz. Studies have shown the body relaxes more when listening to music tuned to 432 Hz, compared to 440 Hz used by modern music, which seeks a more emotional response.
Supporters of 432 Hz music believe it is a “pure” tone that resonates more harmoniously with the human body, which is mostly water. While sound can affect water and potentially influence our bodies, the scientific evidence supporting the specific claims about 432 Hz is limited. However, a study in Italy with 33 volunteers suggests that 432 Hz tuned music can decrease heart rate more than 440 Hz tuned music.
Modern music uses a tuning frequency of 440 Hz, or The Stuttgart pitch, which was internationally standardized in the 20th century. 440 Hz was adopted to create a consistent reference for tuning instruments as the standard concert pitch. 440 Hz is said to trigger a more powerful emotional reaction. According to Maria Renold, 440 Hz can create dissonance and tension. The dissonance produced at this frequency can also affect the body and lead to feelings of anxiety, sadness, aggression, and even physical discomfort. However, critics said her experiments did not meet conventional scientific standards.
While more studies on the topic are underway, there is no doubt sound waves are powerful. Listening to binaural beats is another popular way to destress and promote creativity. Binaural beats are created by playing two different tones simultaneously, one in each ear. When the brain hears these tones, it creates a third tone, which is called a binaural beat. This beat is a form of brainwave entrainment, and it can be used to help you relax and focus. When the brain hears beats in low-frequency tones, those sound waves create shifts in brainwaves, generating slower frequency waves that promote a deeper state of relaxation. In neuroscience, 10 Hz is often associated with the alpha wave frequency range, which is linked to relaxation, mental coordination, and cognitive performance. Some studies show that 10 Hz stimulation can increase theta power in the prefrontal cortex. Furthermore, sound waves are being used to break down tumors, a technique called histotripsy. While sound can be used for healing, sonic weapons have also been created to disorient and injure people. Whether you prefer 432Hz, 440Hz, or any other tuning, it’s always helpful to listen to music that makes you feel balanced and spirited.
Need to unwind from the grind? Here are some meditations I created with music based on the musical notes for each chakra:
- Heart Chakra: F – love and compassion
- Root Chakra: C – grounding and stability
- Sacral Chakra: D – creativity and emotions
- Solar Plexus Chakra: E – confidence and willpower
Heart Activation Meditation:
Root Chakra Meditation:
Sacral Chakra Meditation:
Solar Plexus Chakra Meditation:
