It can be tempting to assume that you need to be born with a unique level of talent in order to become a gifted singer. Or you might think that singing abilities can only be learned by young people. In reality, it’s never too late to take singing lessons and develop this skill for yourself. Better yet, singing results in a surprising array of physical and psychological benefits that will help you live a healthier and more fulfilling life.
You won’t just dazzle friends and family with your talent after you start taking singing lessons. Here’s a closer look at some of the surprising benefits of taking up singing.
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Improving Your Physical Well-Being
Singing can actually serve as a decent workout! Vocal projections and other singing techniques strengthen your lungs and diaphragm, while also improving your circulation. Strengthening of the throat muscles can also reduce the effects of sleep apnea. Because correct posture is so vital to a quality performance, taking singing lessons can even help you improve in this area, reducing the aches and pains so commonly associated with poor posture.
In an interesting discovery, Researchers at the University of Frankfurt found that singing actually helps improve the immune system. After singing, participants in the study were recorded as having higher levels of antibodies in their immune system. In other words, singing on a regular basis could put your body in a better position to fight off disease.
With these physical benefits, singing can ultimately serve as a way of jump-starting your path to improved physical fitness. As you strengthen your lungs and avoid illnesses, you’ll be better able to participate in the cardiovascular activities that will help you enjoy a longer, healthier life.
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Becoming Mentally Strong
As with running and other forms of exercise, singing releases endorphins in the brain. This naturally occurring chemical provides an uplifting mood boost, helping reduce stress and stave off symptoms of depression. Singing further reduces stress by helping your body relax its muscles and reduce your levels of cortisol.
The improved blood circulation that results from singing doesn’t just provide physical benefits — it can also lend a serious boost to your mental alertness. Improved circulation has been associated with better concentration and memory skills. As a result, singing is often used to help Alzheimer’s and dementia patients better manage their condition.
These positive outcomes can have a significant impact on your daily life. By reducing stress and increasing mental alertness, you’ll be better able to face the challenges and responsibilities of each day without feeling overwhelmed.
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Improving Confidence & Communication
Song is ultimately a form of communication — and as you work on improving your own singing abilities, you will be able to become a better communicator. This is especially true if you enjoy writing song lyrics, a great exercise in communication.
As you continually practice singing, you will also become more confident as you communicate with others. Performing on stage can be scary at first, but as you practice and hone your abilities, you can get a significant self-confidence boost. This can subsequently help you have greater confidence when speaking with others or making a presentation.
In addition to improving your self-confidence and communication abilities, singing also provides many opportunities to meet new people. Whether participating in a choir or a local karaoke night, these new social experiences will help you grow new friendships.
Take Up Singing Today!
As the above benefits reveal, there are plenty of great reasons to take up singing. You don’t have to become the next Ariana Grande or Mariah Carey to have fun and improve your overall well-being. As you incorporate this fun hobby into your life, you’ll be able to face each new day with a smile — and a song.