174 Hz: the foundation frequency

174 Hz is the lowest of the nine solfeggio frequencies, known as the foundation tone. People use it for grounding, physical relaxation and feeling settled in their body. Its deep, steady hum suits body scans and winding down. Play 174 Hz free below and set Auto-stop; no app or account needed.

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What is 174 Hz used for?

Kaleidoscope artwork generated from the 174 Hz Foundation frequency
174 Hz frequency, visualized. Every SleepHz artwork is generated from the frequency itself: its number sets the symmetry and the pattern.

174 Hz is used for grounding: feeling steady, safe and back in your body after a busy day. Because it's the lowest solfeggio tone, it sounds deep and warm rather than bright, which makes it a favorite for body-scan meditation and slow breathing.

Where does 174 Hz come from?

174 Hz isn't one of the six original solfeggio tones linked to the hymn Ut queant laxis. It was added later, along with 285 Hz and 963 Hz, to extend the scale to nine. Its “foundation” name reflects its place at the bottom of that scale.

How to listen to 174 Hz

  1. Use a low, comfortable volume. A soft tone is easier to settle into than a loud one.
  2. Sit or lie down and slow your breathing to about six breaths a minute.
  3. Set Auto-stop for 15 to 20 minutes.
  4. Try a body scan: move your attention slowly from your head to your feet as the tone plays.

174 Hz vs 285 Hz

Both are the low, later-added solfeggio tones. 174 Hz is about grounding and feeling steady; 285 Hz is about rest and renewal. Many people play 174 Hz first, then move up to 285 Hz.

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174 Hz FAQ

Is 174 Hz good for sleep?

Its low, soft sound makes it a calm choice at bedtime. Keep the volume low and set Auto-stop for 30 minutes or more.

Do I need headphones for 174 Hz?

Headphones help, because small phone speakers can't reproduce low tones well. Any decent speaker also works.

Is 174 Hz a solfeggio frequency?

Yes. It's the lowest of the nine, though it was added after the original six.