The Benefits of Singing

The many benefits of singing, and vocalisation in general, go well beyond the realm of making music. Our voice is the ultimate vehicle for expression.

After all, our voice is completely unique to us, like a fingerprint for our soul. We carry it with us at all times and use it many times per day.

At the same time, it can also get fatigued, damaged, or blocked if we don’t honour it or treat it with the respect it deserves.

Whenever we open our mouths and speak, we are sharing a part of ourselves with the world, yet so many of us do it without really considering what it really is all about – from the production of sound to the emotional or expressive aspects.

It makes sense that actively singing, whether you have what it traditionally considered a “good voice” or not, can provide us with loads of great benefits.

We’ll discuss the whole idea of a “good voice” in another article at a later date, because unpacking that is a whole blog piece in itself!

So, let’s look at the key benefits of singing and voice work.

Improved Breathing

This is number one on the list, for sure. Breath is the backbone of life, and the human race has a major issue with incorrect breathing techniques.

When we practice singing regularly, coupled with conscious, measured breathing, our respiratory system gets a workout. We develop good breathing habits that cross over into daily life, and we enjoy countless health benefits as a result.

Some of these benefits include: improvements for those with asthma and allergies, improved mental clarity and mood, improved heart and gut health, and a reduction in stress.

To find out more about the importance of breathing correctly and how to do it, click here!

Brain Connectivity

Our brain is divided into hemispheres, with each hemisphere managing different functions. When these hemispheres work together, our lives are enhanced with fewer struggles mentally, emotionally, and physically. When they work in a less connected way, life can get a lot more challenging. Singing is a great way to connect these hemispheres – the logical side and the creative.

Have you heard all those amazing stories about people who struggle with stutters and vocal tics (like with Tourette’s Syndrome), only to find they can sing perfectly without these challenges getting in the way?

This is because singing uses a different part of the brain than speaking. It is really phenomenal to watch language and speech issues literally melt away as soon as you add melody to the equation.

Interested in finding out more about the hemispheres of the brain and how they are important for vocal wellness? Click here!

Building Confidence

Don’t underestimate the power of singing when it comes to building confidence in people of all ages. This is true for those who are serious about becoming vocal performers, as well as for those who just want to sing for fun. Children and teens can experience a real boost to their confidence and self-worth with the right teachers and support. Adults can rediscover confidence and build on it. This can carry across into other areas of people’s lives, making singing a brilliantly simple way to improve confidence and self-esteem.

Improved Moods

Our hormones get a lift when we sing, too. Endorphins and oxytocin, and reduced cortisol levels are all part of the magic that is singing. When we use our voice to express ourselves in a creative and positive way, all the chemistry in our body starts working more effectively and with less stress or conflict.

When we sing, we feel good – there really isn’t a much better reason than that to open your mouth and belt out a tune!

More specifically, singing can help with anxiety and depression, grief and anger. Check out these articles for more info.

Spiritual Connection

Our soul expresses itself through our voice, so opening up and letting it out is a great thing for our spiritual wellbeing. For those who love a little soul talk, our throat chakra can greatly benefit from a regular, dedicated singing practice. There are two levels to this. The first is to sing when we are going about our day and completing all the usual tasks. The second, and possibly the most beneficial, is a dedicated practice that includes work on breathing, voice production, expression, and visualisation.

This can be done daily, weekly, or every other day, but whatever you choose, set aside time that is devoted to singing training, or a different voice practice such as vocal toning or breathwork. There are plenty of options to choose from – find your favourite or create a personalised program that brings a number of highly effective strategies into the mix.

We are spirits living a physical life, and we connect with others around us in a variety of ways. The one connection tool we all have in common is the human voice. It is accessible, identifiable, unique and has loads of impact.

The reality is that our voice has impact in the world, regardless of how we use it, whether we honour it, or whether we treat it with the love and respect it deserves. Lack of use also speaks volumes, and can have huge repercussions for us and those we love.

Do you need help building a vocal wellness routine? Book an appointment with Elissa at Everyday Healing to start you on the path to vocal healing.

What other benefits have you noticed when you sing? They can be physical, mental, emotional, social, or spiritual. We’d love to hear from you!