We often hear that singing is “good for the soul” and I’m sure all of us have enjoyed singing at some point in our lives, whether it was at school, with your hairbrush in front of the mirror or belting out your favourite songs in the shower.
But do you feel any different when you sing with others? Of course, many of us sing in groups already; as part of a church, at birthday celebrations or at a football or rugby match for example. Throughout history and in all corners of the world, people come together and use song as a form of connection.
It’s been proven that singing releases endorphins; the “feel good” hormones which improve our mood levels, lower stress, reduce depression, can alleviate pain and also enhance our sense of well-being by improving our self-esteem and confidence.
Singing can also help improve mental alertness, memory and concentration, as it requires you to engage your brain and focus on multiple things at once. This is why many health professionals now recommend singing as a form of therapy to benefit patients who are suffering with mental illnesses.
That’s what the science says, but I wanted to find out what members of my local choir Somewhere 2 Sing thought too.
“I’m so glad I finally joined. I have made some lovely new friends and improved my physical and mental health in the process.”
“I’m quite a shy person, so it was a big deal for me to join. It’s extremely uplifting and if you enjoy singing it’s a great way to learn songs and meet people.”
The choir are always working towards exciting new projects, with recent experiences including a flashmob at Kings Cross Station and recording at Abbey Road Studios.
At all of their performances, Somewhere 2 Sing endeavour to support charities but recently have raised £2,000 for Dementia UK through a series of choir social evenings.
The evidence speaks for itself! Grab your free taster at www.somewhere2sing.co.uk
