Benefits of Singing

“When I was young
I’d listen to the radio
Waitin’ for my favorite songs
When they played I’d sing along
It made me smile…

“All my best memories
Come back clearly to me
Some can even make me cry.
Just like before
It’s yesterday once more.”

But the benefits of music – and of singing, specifically – go beyond stirring memories and tugging our heartstrings. Research shows demonstrable effects of warbling a tune.

10 benefits of singing

1. Improves respiratory health

Singing involves controlled breathing techniques that strengthen the diaphragm and improve lung capacity. This kind of respiratory workout can enhance overall lung function and stamina.

2. Enhances mental well-being

Singing releases endorphins and oxytocin, hormones associated with happiness and reduced stress. It can effectively combat anxiety and depression, providing a natural mood booster.

3. Boosts immune system

Research suggests that singing can increase the production of antibodies and improve the body’s defense against infections, contributing to a more robust immune system.

4. Strengthens social bonds

Singing in a choir, band, or casual sing-along fosters a sense of community and belonging. These social connections play a significant role in enhancing overall mental and emotional well-being.

5. Enhances memory and cognitive function

Learning lyrics and melodies stimulates brain activity, improving memory and cognitive abilities. This benefit can be particularly valuable for older adults wanting to maintain mental strength.

Related: How music benefits your brain

6. Improves posture and muscle tone

Singing encourages better posture as it requires a straight back and open chest for optimal sound production. It also tones the muscles involved in breathing and facial expressions.

7. Facilitates emotional release

Singing is a powerful form of emotional expression that allows individuals to convey their feelings and experiences, providing a therapeutic outlet for emotional release.

8. Boosts confidence

Performing in front of others, even in informal settings, can significantly enhance self-esteem and confidence.

9. Improves sleep

Regular singing can strengthen the throat and palate muscles, which can even help reduce snoring and enhance sleep quality.

10. It’s for everyone

Whether you’re a professional singer or your voice is more like a crow with laryngitis, the health benefits of singing are equally accessible to all.

Ways to experience the benefits of singing

Community choirs

Joining a community choir is a fantastic way to engage in singing while connecting with others. These choirs often welcome singers of all skill levels. The practice sessions and performances offer chances to sing and to engage with others. Two such choirs in the Richmond, Virginia, region extend their missions beyond providing beautiful music.

Joyful Voices Chorus is a community-based choir for singers with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and their caregivers. This choir performs uplifting and inspirational music and fosters community and belonging among its members.

One Voice Chorus is an interracial chorus that promotes social justice and unity through music. Its mission is to bridge gaps between different communities. Singers can participate in a chorus that aligns with the values of diversity and equality.

Church choirs

Many churches have choirs that perform during services and special occasions. These choirs offer a chance to sing choral music, from traditional hymns to more contemporary pieces.

Senior community sing-alongs

Sponsored by local governments, senior nonprofits and community centers, or retirement communities, senior sing-alongs provide a delightful and beneficial activity for older adults. They offer a rich blend of social interaction and cognitive stimulation to help provide emotional well-being tailored for older adults.

These gatherings allow seniors to engage in music while experiencing a sense of community and belonging. Singing familiar songs together can trigger fond memories, enhance mood, and improve mental strength.

Related: Bringing music as therapy to your loved one

LGBTQ community choruses

These choruses provide a vibrant and supportive space for individuals to come together through the unifying power of music. These choruses are typically open to allies of the LGBTQ community as well. They offer an artistic outlet for self-expression and foster a strong sense of belonging and acceptance within the LGBTQ community.

Singing workshops and classes

Participating in workshops and singing classes can help you improve your skills and meet like-minded individuals. These sessions are often led by experienced vocal coaches and provide tailored instruction for singers at any level.

Karaoke nights and open mic events

For a more informal setting, karaoke nights and open mic events, like those held at community centers and bars, are excellent opportunities to have an audience for your songs.

Virtual choirs and online platforms

Online platforms offer singers the chance to join virtual choirs or participate in singing challenges. These digital choirs, like The Sofa Singers, are ideal for those with mobility issues or compromised immune systems or those who live in rural areas.

Singing offers tremendous benefits that extend well past the pleasure of producing music. The advantages of engaging in regular singing activities are numerous and profound, from improving physical health and mental well-being to promoting social connections and personal growth. Whether through community choirs or informal gatherings, find your outlet to experience the full benefits of singing!

“Sing, sing a song. Make it simple to last your whole life long. Don’t worry that it’s not good enough for anyone else to hear. Just sing, sing a song.”