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During the COVID confinement we began to see videos popping up of people singing from their balconies and windows, or choirs performing via Zoom. When we sing, large parts of our brain “light up” with activity. When we speak, the hemisphere of the brain dealing with language lights up, as we might expect. When we sing, however, both sides of the brain spark into life. The parts of the brain that involve the emotional networks of the brain, as well as sound and articulation all engage.
The physical exertion involved in singing – filling of our lungs, the firm control of our vocal chords, the movements of our mouth and body – is among the reasons why it can boost our mood. Singing is an aerobic exercise which sees the release of endorphins, the brain’s ‘feel-good’ chemicals. Endorphins relate to an overall lifted feeling of happiness, it gives a feeling of euphoria so it’s all associated with a reduction in stress. In any situation whether it is under stress or [with] any physical ailments, illness, psychological deprivation, music has the potential to affect our body and mind.
Focusing on controlling your rate of breathing – a key skill in singing – activates parts of the brain that are linked to emotion. Being in a better mood has all sorts of benefits. When your mood is up, you strengthen your immune system. You respond to stress factors in a more positive way and enhance sleep patterns.
It also engages what is potentially the body’s greatest stress-reliever – breathing. Deep or diaphragmatic breathing allows a full oxygen-exchange to occur in the lung’s cells, activating the body’s parasympathetic nervous system which then slows the heart rate and dilates the blood vessels which lowers your blood pressure.
So, when your feeling a bit stressed...sing!
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