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If you're reading this, you've probably discovered that singing, especially with others, feels great! Maybe you even know something specific about why. Lately, more and more studies are uncovering why it is that singing feels so darn and is so darn good for us. Here is some of what's been discovered about what singing can offer us:  

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A Healthier Mind: The reason singing feels so good is because doing it releases endorphins -- the 'feel good' chemicals -- into the body, making it a natural antidepressant. Singing also releases stored muscle tension in the body and decreases the levels of a stress hormone called cortisol in your blood stream. Not only that, but singing can simply take your mind off the day’s troubles to boost your mood.

 

Speeding Recovery from Postpartum Depression: Post-natal depression is estimated to affect one in eight new mothers. In a recent study in the UK, researchers found that women who took part in group singing sessions with their babies experienced a much faster improvement in their symptoms than those who did not. A singing mama is a happy, healthy mama; and a happy, healthy mama is a happy, healthy baby!

 

A Boosted Immune System: According to research conducted at the University of Frankfurt, singing boosts the immune system. The study involved testing choir members’ blood before and after an hour-long rehearsal. The researchers noticed that in most cases, the amount of proteins in the immune system that function as antibodies, known as Immunoglobulin A, were significantly higher immediately after the rehearsal. The same increases were not observed after the choir members passively listened to music.

 

A Stronger Body: For the elderly, otherly-abled, and injured, singing can be an excellent form of exercise. Even if you’re healthy, your lungs will get a workout as you employ proper singing techniques and vocal projections. Other related health benefits of singing include a stronger diaphragm, heart, and overall circulation. Some studies have also shown that singing can improve posture and spinal alignment.

 

Greater Sense of Connection: When you join a singing group, the bonds you form with others can be profound. Singing offers a level of intimacy that isn't available in many other social activities. Having regular meaningful connection with others is vital for good health. Loneliness and a sense of disconnection, ailments which are so prevalent in our times, can literally make us sick. So, gathering regularly with your singing comrades can help to meet social needs that boost our all around health in a number of ways.