Having A Bad Day? Sing A Song!

I sometimes miss being a disc jockey. Please, don't misunderstand, it is one of the joys of my life to begin my day sharing the events of the day and having conversations with you, and getting to work with my friend Chris is a great way to start for my day. But there are days I miss playing music on the radio.

I love music, and there is not much in my day, outside of my time on the radio show, where some sort of music isn't playing. It seems to lift my mood. And this article we talked about on the show seems to verify my position. Have you ever had the experience where your driving and one of your favorite songs comes on the radio and you reach over and turn up the volume and belt out the song at the top of your lungs? How was you mood after that? (Of course, if your kids were with you they might have been traumatized.)

The therapeutic value of music and singing is widely recognized and has been utilized throughout history in various cultures. Both music and singing have the power to evoke strong emotions, uplift spirits, and create a sense of connection and community. When used in a therapeutic context, they offer numerous benefits for individuals of all ages and with various conditions.

One of the key benefits is emotional expression. Music provides a medium for individuals to express and process their emotions. It allows people to tap into and release feelings of joy, sadness, anger, or grief. Singing, in particular, enables individuals to convey their emotions through the power of their voice, providing a cathartic and expressive outlet.

Engaging with music, whether by listening or participating through singing, can significantly reduce stress levels. Music has the ability to lower cortisol, the stress hormone, and promote the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural mood-boosting chemicals. This leads to a sense of relaxation and well-being.

Listening to uplifting and positive music or participating in singing activities can also enhance mood and increase happiness. The rhythmic patterns, melodies, and harmonies in music have a direct impact on the brain, triggering the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.

Music stimulates multiple areas of the brain, including those involved in memory, attention, and executive function. Engaging in musical activities, such as singing or playing an instrument, can enhance cognitive abilities, especially in individuals with neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

Music therapy is often incorporated into physical rehabilitation programs to enhance motor skills and coordination. Rhythmic patterns and musical beats can help individuals improve their gait, balance, and overall movement control. Singing exercises can also strengthen respiratory muscles and improve breath control.

Furthermore, music and singing have the power to bring people together and foster a sense of belonging and connection. Participating in group singing activities or joining a choir can create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals can engage with others, build relationships, and develop their communication skills.

Music has been shown to have analgesic effects, reducing the perception of pain and the need for pain medication. Listening to calming and soothing music can distract individuals from their pain, provide relaxation, and improve overall well-being.

Engaging in music and singing allows individuals to express their unique identity and individuality. It can provide a sense of empowerment, boost self-esteem, and encourage self-discovery and self-expression.

I wrote an article about a year ago sharing some of the songs that always seem to make me smile and maybe you can use this as a starting place. Do yourself a favor. Next time one of your favorite tunes comes on pause for a moment and make your day by belting it out.