The Benefits of Singing

According to a recent study, “Music is ubiquitous in all known human cultures. The general capacity for human beings to perceive, produce and enjoy music even in the absence of formal music training suggests that music may be ‘hardwired’ in our genetic makeup.”

Physical Benefits of Singing

Singing increases the amount of oxygen a person takes in as they inhale deeply. The practice of singing involves strong and fast inhalations, followed by extended, regulated exhalations. This produces a feeling of alertness as more oxygen gets to the brain. This form of exercise works both organs and muscles for a complete workout.

Mental Benefits of Singing

Singing makes a person feel good both physically and mentally. The process of singing, especially in a group, is highly motivational. It’s proven to help calm negative mental “chatter.” Everyone has distracting, unhelpful thoughts at times. Focusing on singing takes focus away from such thoughts. According to a story on the conditions in a London hospital, “[The] surgical floor had been converted into a department for coronavirus patients, and spirits were low. Nurse Lori Marie Key was asked if she would sing ‘Amazing Grace’ for her colleagues during the morning briefing. There was something about the solidarity and togetherness of that moment that personifies a lot about the power of song. But it wasn’t just something abstract and ethereal happening, there are scientific reasons for why singing feels good.” When we sing, large parts of our brain “light up” with activity. Additionally, singing beautiful lyrics helps to expand one’s imagination and appreciation of the world around them. It connects people in a very real way and shines a light on how others see and experience life.

Increased Positive Feelings

Singing is often a joyful and uplifting experience. Research carried out at the Department of Psychology of McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada found that singing increases the body’s levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA). This is an antibody made by the immune system to fight bacteria, viruses and toxins. IgA is found in high concentrations in the body's mucous membranes, particularly the respiratory passages and gastrointestinal tract, as well as in saliva and tears. Furthermore, researchers involved in this study found that listening to music stimulates the body to release dopamine, the body’s own reward and pleasure neurochemical. Another benefit of being a singer is increased levels of the hormone oxytocin which lead to improved social integration and affiliation. Positive feelings can make a huge difference in the life of an older adult who may be living alone or suffering from a chronic medical condition.

Singing can make a huge difference in all of our lives. At the end of the day, it’s also great fun.

That is exactly the intention of “Tune in Tuesdays,” a weekday program of music and conversation offered by ComForCare Home Care. The music is from the 30s to the 60s, of particular interest to the elderly and can be viewed at home or together in a group, such as in an assisted living facility.

It’s available Monday through Friday at 1:00 p.m. ET on the company’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/comforcarefairfield

Mark it on our calendar and join ComForCare Home Care every weekday. If you miss it live, you still can view archived videos.

Portions of this article were originally featured on blog.comforcare.com.

ComForCare Home Care is a premier provider of in-home care with nearly 200 independently owned and operated locations in the U.S., Canada and the U.K., helping older adults live independently in their own homes and continue to do all the things they love. The home care company is committed to helping people live their best life possible and also offers special programs for people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

ComForCare Home Care

Serving Fairfield & New Haven Counties

1700 Post Road, Suite E5

Fairfield, CT 06824

(203) 612-8966

ComForCare.com/FairfieldCT

fairfieldct@comforcare.com

This post is an advertorial piece contributed by a Patch Community Partner, a local sponsor. The views expressed in this post are the author's own.

For more about Community Partner, click here.