Remember how the tunes and lyrics from those Disney movies or musicals stick with you. Then, you find yourself suddenly belting one out as you drive home from work on Friday afternoon. The sheer joy of singing, even if you can’t carry a tune, just makes you feel good. But is it only the musical memories it evokes or is there more to it.
Researchers believe there’s more.
Much more.How singing helps your brain
- When you sing, it releases endorphins (those chemicals that make you feel-good) into the brain.
- It can lift mild depression.
- Learning the lyrics to songs improves your memory.
- Singing boosts your immune system, helping you resist illnesses.
- A song in your heart releases stress.
- The deep breathing, while you sing, clears your thinking.
- Vocalizing benefits your heart.
- While singing, your energy level increases.
When you sing correctly, that is, when you breathe deeply from your belly as you sing, you fill your lungs with oxygen which pushes more oxygen into your brain. In turn, that extra oxygen gives your mind the extra energy boost. The exercise provides your entire cardiovascular system a workout.
But singing does more than improve oxygen levels. Its vibrations change your brain itself by altering your brainwaves. And the endorphins it releases floods your mind with delight.
Researchers have studies on group singing such as in a choir or glee club revealing that singers have lower cortisol levels, meaning they have lower stress levels. Lower daytime cortisol levels give you a better night’s sleep too so singing can help you be more rested. Singing keeps you younger also. It gives your body and your brain a good workout and exercises your facial and neck muscles.
Children benefit from singing too. Lullabies, rhymes, and chants carry the rhythm of their culture. It prepares them for hearing and forming words, and developing language. Their speech improves when they learn to sing new words. And as they sing with you, it promotes social bonding.
If you’ve recently moved to a new city, finding a choral group, musical theater, or even the karaoke night at your local pub can give you an opportunity to exercise your voice, improve your brain, and also make new friends. Check with your local library or speak to the music teacher at your children’s school for information on vocal opportunities near you.
About the Author
Jamie Jamieson
Professional Association National Association of Realtors (NAR) New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR) Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors/ Hudson Gateway Multiple Listing Service Education I hold an A.A in Italian Studies and an A.S in Accounting as well as being one of few students accepted into the Cambridge University International Student Study Program abroad as a returning student in 2011. Community Involvement I am proud to serve on the Home & School Board for St. Augustine School in Ossining and maintain the role of a Girl Scout leader. I am an active member of the community assisting in a variety of fundraising efforts. Personal I am a young and energetic agent who prides myself on providing personalized service with honest representation whether you are buying or selling your home. My expertise of the river towns, attention to detail and excitement for real estate are a few of the many assets I will bring to you. I will utilize my eagerness and market knowledge of the area to build lasting relationships with all of my clients that will extend far beyond the closing table. Be at ease from start to finish with my help. In my spare time, I love exploring the Hudson Valley with my husband, three children and our dog, Pippin. I love scoping out the infinite restaurants, farmers markets and other fabulous activities this exciting county has to offer. Experience Before joining William Raveis Legends Realty Group I started my career with Hudson Homes Sotheby's International Realty team. Prior to real estate, I had a remarkable 15+ year career in Restaurant Management/Hospitality including Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Rivermarket and several establishments in Newport, Rhode Island. My experience in that field provided me with the foundation of excellence in customer service. Areas Covered All of Westchester County and parts of Putnam County.