12 Reasons For Singing
Let’s start this essay with “Singing brings joy!”
We always burst into a random song in the shower and hum it all day. We would not really pay any heed to it, but it simply brings joy and magical feelings. Whether we hit a single note or hum an entire song, singing undeniably does wonders to our hearts, brain and life!
So I bring to you 12 reasons for singing- exploring why everyone, why, even you should sing.
1. Stress relief - Reduces cortisol levels naturally
Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed? Here is an excellent answer to overcome stress.
Here’s how to use singing for stress relief. When you are stressed, the human body releases a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol is responsible for sweaty palms, raised heartbeats and tight chest. Naturally, when you sing, these hormone levels are reduced. You start to feel more relaxed, grounded and lighter within minutes.
Some say, this is similar to meditating especially when you sing soft, soothing tunes. Singing for stress relief works every time.
2. Better breathing - Strengthens respiratory muscles
Next up on the benefits of singing, is that it helps you breathe better. It’s like a gentle workout for your lungs.
Can singing improve your lung capacity?
Yes, when we sing, using the right technique, the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles are engaged. This in turn takes deeper, longer breaths.
Overtime, your respiratory health gets strong, lung capacity also improves with enhanced breath control.
Did You Know?
3. Mood enhancement - Releases happiness chemicals
Singing makes you happy and that is a fact!
Here’s how to use singing for emotional release. Ever noticed your moods instantly getting lifted when you sing your favourite song? That is because it triggers the release of endorphins and dopamine (the feel-good hormones) and it boosts pleasure and motivation.
This is one of the emotional benefits of singing. Even humming softly increases oxytocin which helps in reducing the feelings of loneliness, spark joy and instantly makes you feel relaxed. And that’s why I call it the mood-booster.
4. Social connection - Builds community and belonging
Hands down! Since the dawn of time, people have sung together to co-exist, communicate and build their lives. From tribal chants to temple hymns, from lullabies to karaoke nights, singing has always brought people together.
Why should we search for a reason to sing when it helps release oxytocin chemicals, help hearts sync up and brings a deep sense of togetherness. Always remember that you don’t need to be perfect, you only need to be present.
5. Confidence building - Develops self-esteem and courage
Just another reason why people sing is that it brings out the confidence that is hiding behind the fear of judgment inside them. Performing in front of others will help you learn to express yourself and own your voice. As a music tutor, I always tell my learners that each note they sing strengthens your self-esteem and every performance big or small 100% builds courage. So take up singing for confidence building.
6. Boosts Immune system - Increases infection-fighting proteins
Did you know that singing can boost your immune system? Well, it is true. Studies have shown that singing has health benefits. Why, just listening to music can actually boost the production of infection-fighting proteins and decrease the stress hormones.
All of these make your body resilient to infections and improve your immune function.
Did You Know?
7. Memory improvement - Enhances cognitive function
Singing is not just for expressing yourself but is also a very powerful tool for memory improvement. Now, research shows that singing everyday can improve your cognitive function. This enhancement happens for all ages and even for the elderly.
Let me tell you how singing helps in cognitive enhancement. Your brain needs to process the lyrics, melody, pitch, tempo, rhythm and emotions all at once. Can we say that this mental workout strengthens neural connections and activities? That’s why singing is a “full-brain workout”.
8. Singing engages core and respiratory muscles
Is singing a good workout? Let me remind you that when you sing, you are engaging your diaphragm, abdominal muscles, chest muscles and your posture muscles. Singing with proper technique using all these muscles and steady support from the core tones the midsection over time.
This is one of the physical benefits of singing.
9. Better sleep - Relaxes body and mind
My mum always says- struggling to sleep? Go and try singing! To my surprise, it always works. It helps you unwind, calm your thoughts and prepare your mind for restful sleep.
Here’s why!
The human body naturally releases endorphins and oxytocin that induces calmness and reduces stress. Reduction in stress leads to a calmer mind which makes it easier to sleep.
10. An healthy outlet for feelings
Next up on 12 Reasons For Singing, it is considered to be one of the most efficient outlets for feelings. Whether you’re anxious or angry or joyful, singing gives these emotions a voice.
Music and emotions go hand in hand. Singing your favourite tunes helps you tap into those feelings and most importantly creates a safe space to process them.
11. Improves language skills - Improves pronunciation and articulation
One of the lesser known benefits of singing is its positive effect on improving language skills. It also enhances the pronunciation and articulation.
When you sing, you naturally pay attention to how the words in the lyrics sound. You will start to analyze vowels, accenting consonants to match the rhythms. The process will force you to improve articulation.
12. Cultural connection - Links to heritage and tradition
Hands down! Singing is one of the most powerful and effective ways to connect with your roots. Songs carry history, dialects, mythology and pride of the regions we stay and connect to.
When we sing these songs, we just don’t perform but participate in a living tradition. Singing traditional hymns during cultural festivals with people creates a shared sense of belonging and therefore connects people across the world. And that’s how you maximize the social benefits of singing.
Final Thoughts
Just like how I started this text, singing does bring joy and happiness and makes our troubles go away. Learn and sing your heart out! Remember, you don’t have to be perfect. Sign up with us today!
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