Did you know that there are literally health benefits that come from singing? Yes singing is joyful and artistic and intrinsic to the human experience. But it’s also medically and mentally beneficial.
1 – RELIEVES STRESS
Scientists measured the amount of cortisol (the stress hormone) in a participant’s saliva before and after they sang. They found that cortisol levels were lower after singing, an indication that people were more relaxed after singing. They also found that singing reduces stress regardless of whether the participants were singing by themselves or in a group. However, this effect was only found if you are singing in a place that doesn’t make you anxious.
Another study found that cortisol went UP in recitals and performance scenarios. Another reason why Kindermusik is process based, not performance based.
2 – STIMULATES THE IMMUNE RESPONSE
There is some evidence that singing may boost your immune system and help you fight off illness. A study compared the effects of singing with simply listening to music. In two separate sessions research subjects either sang or listened to music. Those who sang showed higher levels of immunoglobulin A, an antibody your body secretes to help you fend off infections. So make sure you’re singing along in class, even if you’re not confident in your voice. For your child’s joy and your own health.
3 – INCREASES PAIN THRESHOLD
When you sing in a group your body releases endorphins. Regardless of if it’s in a small group or a large choir, this effect promotes positive feelings and even change your perception of pain.
A study found that singing, drumming, and dancing in a group triggers the release of hormones that raise your pain tolerance in ways that just listening to music doesn’t. Research note, however, that it may be the feelings of social connection, rather than the music itself, that could be the boost in pain tolerance.
4 – MAY IMPROVE SNORING
Regular singing can change the way you breathe, even when not singing. It is like exercise for your breathing habits. Researchers interviewed the spouses of choir members, along with the spouses of people who don’t sing. They found significantly fewer choir members snored, leading them to recommend regular singing as potential treatment for snoring.
Studies have also shown that people who play wind instruments also snore less than the general population. These findings have suggested that singing and playing wind instruments could be beneficial for people with obstructive sleep apnea.
5 – IMPROVES LUNG FUNCTION
Because singing involves deep breathing and the controlled use of muscles in the respiratory system, it may be beneficial for certain lung conditions. Studies have shown that the breathing techniques used with singing may offer benefits for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, asthma, and cystic fibrosis.
While singing doesn’t treat or cure any of these conditions, you may benefit from gaining strength in your respiratory muscles. Singing also increases the amount of oxygen in your blood. In addition to the pulmonary benefits, singers also experience improved mood and greater sense of social connection.
***
When you fully participate and sing along in a Kindermusik class with your child, not only are you setting them up for a lifetime of the benefits of singing, but you are benefiting in real time too!
Kindermusik is a nurturing environment, not only for your child, but for their caregivers as well. No matter your musical skill or lack thereof, your voice is valued and needed in class. So sing along and sing out!