The Surprising Benefits You Didn’t Know About

Did you know that singing isn’t just a skill, but a powerful tool for transforming your mind, body, and even your social life?

From releasing happiness-boosting endorphins to improving memory and lung health, the benefits of singing might surprise you.

Let’s explore how something as simple as singing can make a big difference in your life - and why you don’t have to be a pro to reap the rewards.

Emotional Impact: Feel-Good Science in Action

Singing has a magical way of lifting your spirits.

Ever felt that burst of joy after belting out a song?

That’s your brain releasing endorphins and oxytocin - chemicals that reduce stress and make you feel happy.

Singing also lowers cortisol levels (the stress hormone), helping you relax and unwind.

Try This: Hum along to your favourite tune in the shower or car. It’s not about sounding perfect - it’s about letting those feel-good hormones do their thing!

Physical Benefits: More Than Just a Workout for Your Voice

When you sing, you use your whole body!!

From keeping your body loose and relaxed to keep effort levels low, to improved breathing through managing the 'powerhouse' of your voice. You'll be engaging core muscles, looking at posture to enable freedom of body and movement. Breathing patterns will change, which can positively impact other areas of life - such as COPD conditions, and lung capacity. It can even help with things like swallowing as you'll be getting a great tongue workout (especially if you incorporate tongue stretches as part of your warm up).

Pro Tip: If struggling with breath management try leaning over a chair, supporting yourself with your arms, and with knees slightly loose. Breathe in and out gently, thorough the nose, and allow your belly to release.

Cognitive Development: A Brain Boost at Any Age

Singing engages multiple parts of the brain simultaneously - language, memory, and motor skills all get a workout.

Studies show that singing can improve memory retention, especially in older adults, and help children develop language skills more effectively.

Fun Idea: Learn the lyrics to a new song. It’s a great way to challenge your memory while having fun.

Social Connection: Finding Your Tribe Through Song

There’s something magical about singing with others.

Whether it’s in a choir, at karaoke, or just singing Happy Birthday, group singing builds a sense of connection and community.

It’s even been shown to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Get Involved: Look for local singing groups or community choirs - they’re open to all skill levels and are a great way to meet new people. Remember to try different o ones, to find the one that best suits you.

Practical Advice: Yes, Singing Is for Everyone

Tone deafness is normally a myth!! Yes we've said it. Only a very small percentage of the population - 4% - are classed as having 'amusia' (tone-deafness) (Kalmus and Fry, 1980).

For the majority of people they are not tone-deaf. They just haven't necessarily has the same access to listening and singing to music, especially as a child. Most people who truly are tone-deaf will struggle to differentiate between Beethoven and Eminem, and are likely to have a monotone speaking voice.

For the rest of us, it is a confidence issue, and also an aural practice issue. This can be worked on and improved - please reach out if you'd like support with this.

But you can still enjoy the benefits of singing. Whether you’re humming a lullaby, singing in the shower, or joining a choir, it’s about the joy it brings - not necessarily the sound it makes.

Start Small: Begin with a song you love. Sing along without worrying about how you sound. Let the rhythm and melody carry you. Allow your body to move with the music too.

Your Voice, Your Wellness Tool

Singing has the power to transform not just your mood but your entire well-being.

From emotional relief to physical benefits and social connections, it’s a simple yet powerful way to enrich your life.

So why not give it a go? Your voice is more than just an instrument - it’s a tool for happiness, health, and connection.

What’s your favorite song to sing? Let us know in the comments and share your singing journey with us!