July 7, 2016
The benefits of singing are many and varied. For centuries, humans have known that it 'feels' good to sing, but it wasn't until that it was researched thoroughly by doctors and psychologists, that the benefits began to be taken more seriously.
I know that I myself turned to singing during a difficult time in my life... in fact, at 27 with a great career, I dropped everything to go and study Jazz in Melbourne. My family worried about the direction I was headed, but I knew that I was headed towards new beginnings, healing, and new friendships. I had no idea of the scientific benefits of singing... I just knew that I wanted to do it.
Endorphins, associated with feelings of pleasure are released during singing, as are oxytocin, which alleviates anxiety and stress. Oxytocin also enhances feelings of trust and bonding, lessening feelings of depression and loneliness. A doctor couldn't have prescribed a better medicine for me. And these chemicals and hormones are also one of the reasons that singing is ideal for improving social benefits for children, classes, and teams.
For further information and evidence, you can head to the following articles:
Time Magazine: Singing Changes Your Brain
http://ideas.time.com/2013/08/16/singing-changes-your-brain/
Further Research:
For an incredibly comprehensive list of websites and research seehere:
http://www.creativityaustralia.org.au/research/choir-research