These few paragraphs in a BBC post led me to a longer BBC article on the benefits of singing, see How singing can improve your health in this article by David Cox.
Sing to feel better
Have you ever felt the pure unbridled elation of singing when no one is listening? Or the heightened sense of connection to others when you sing in a group? Researchers say singing is a “cognitive, physical, emotional and social act” – meaning the benefits of this ancient human practice are multifold.
Singing activates a broad network of neurons on both sides of our brain, including in regions that deal with language, movement and emotion. Combined with the focus on breathing, this makes singing an effective stress reliever. And singing as part of a group has been found to promote an even greater level of psychological wellbeing than singing alone.
Blasting out your favourite song is good for your heart, boosts immune function and can even suppress pain. The act of singing is also an aerobic exercise, comparable to a brisk walk. So, not only is it a good work out, you also get that rush of endorphins – the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals. Singing has even been found to help the brain repair itself.
So, whether you enjoy a gentle sing-along or belting out a tune with joyful abandon in the shower, you can do so with the knowledge that you are reaping the benefits.
Learn more about how singing can improve your health in this article by David Cox.