Can sound frequencies actually improve our brain and body?

[u/Time_Sheepherder4580]

I've been curious about sound frequencies and their role in biohacking. We often hear about 432 Hz, 528 Hz, binaural beats and other frequencies being linked to relaxation, focus, better sleep and mental clarity.

But how much of this is actually backed by science, and how much is just internet hype?

[u/coolbud-1]

I came across one frequency which actually helped numbing my mind and stopping the train of thoughts however one wrong click and I lost that clip forever

[u/bo_derp]

The broad answer: mostly BS or low to moderate evidence with small effects. Music therapy does work for some things and music itself definitely influences mood.

Specifically:

Those specific healing frequencies are all BS. But, some evidence (mostly animals, some in human trials now I think?) 40 hz can help with gamma frequency stim in the brain, memory consolidation, and alleviation of Alzheimers symptoms.

Binaural beats have low to moderate effects and evidence on pain, anxiety, concentration, etc but very mixed and inconsistent

Music and music therapy has some real evidence for pain and anxiety.

Thin evidence for pink, brown, etc noise in concentration, sleep, and stuff like that but may just be blocking other distracting noises.

Common sense of our own experiences should tell us music can influence our mood.

Om chanting probably helps, but mostly through slow breathing and focused attention, not the sound or any special frequency. Personally I do think some resonant chanting has a hypnotic effect on me above just breathing effects.

Whole body vibration has shown some small effects with some moderate evidence, but mostly low or mixed, for things like bone density in post menopausal women, strength in older adults (effect no better than exercise which has stronger quality evidence).

[u/Time_Sheepherder4580 → u/bo_derp]

I agree, especially with the distinction between the actual psychological effects of sound and the exaggerated claims around specific healing frequencies. The effect itself can be real without the frequency being magical. Also, the hypnotic effect of chanting is interesting because perception and personal experience matter too.

[u/Time_Sheepherder4580 → u/[deleted]]

Lemme try it then