The Positive Effects of Singing - Just Science or Something More?
Hello!
I’m back with another post exploring the link between singing and wellness. In the first post, I shared a bit about myself and the phenomenon of how singing has positive effects on our minds and bodies. If you missed the first post, I recommend reading it here.
For anyone who attended my free workshop, “Sing Yourself Happier,” at the end of January - thank you for taking part! I really hope you enjoyed it and possibly felt a little happier afterward 🙂
One thing I mentioned in the workshop is the “formula” behind why singing has this positive effect on us:
Breath + Resonance = A Positive Chemical Reaction
Simply put: when we use a prolonged, continuous exhale - which happens when we sing phrases - and the resonance created by our voice passes through our bodies and vocal cords, we stimulate the nervous system and the vagus nerve. This puts the body into "rest and digest" mode, increasing all the “happy hormones” and neurotransmitters: endorphins, oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin.
That’s basically the science behind it. However, there is more to it…
Something More than Science
What might be slightly harder to quantify and explain is the more spiritual side of singing. Singers have shared with me that they sometimes feel as though they are channeling unconscious messages while writing new songs. They also describe moments of bliss and insight when singing songs they love. I have certainly experienced this myself many times, both in singing and in writing songs.
Ultimately, singing is a beautiful blend of science and something bigger - something perhaps beyond our full understanding. It can provide a pathway for emotional release and create a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. Perhaps sometimes, we don’t need to explain the unexplainable. By welcoming the unique power of our voices, we can experience moments of joy, insight, and healing.
I’m very much looking forward to sharing another workshop with you soon! This workshop will once again include tools on how we can use the practice of singing to boost our well-being. Sign up for my newsletter here to stay in the loop!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this little read. I’ll be back soon. Until then, take care and always… keep singing
With love,
Malin
P.S.! As it’s Valentine’s, why not give your voice some extra love this weekend… Here’s my favourite voice care tips below:
Give Your Voice Some Love 🎶
* 🌬️ Steam Your Voice – Inhale steam to keep your vocal cords hydrated.
* 🍵 Drink Ginger Tea (or Caffeine-Free Herbal Tea) – Soothes and warms your throat. Ginger also reduce inflammation, and gives your immune system a great boost.
* 🧣 Wear a Scarf in Cold Weather – Protects your voice from the cold.
* 🥤💧 Do SOVT in Water – Use a straw in water, a reset and rehab method for your vocal cords.
* 🤫 Vocal Rest – Simply stay silent. Give your voice a break to recover and stay healthy.