"It is important that we sing. . .Singing frees the soul, makes it flexible, and helps it soar and expand. Singing lets the sun in--gives warmth to our lives and wings to our spirit. Those who sing know this."
~Dina Soresi Winter
I've discovered that singing with a chorus is a lot of fun. What a joy it is to lift one's voice in harmony with others to create beautiful music! I've also noticed some unexpected benefits after a couple of months of practicing those alto parts every day in the car and going to weekly rehearsals. I've been noticing a subtle shift in my energy--I feel more vitality, a certain lightness of being, a brighter spirit; I find a walk a little taller, stand a little straighter, and feel increasing confidence about singing out or even speaking. I just feel good! I've been curious about that.
Last weekend I discovered a wonderful book that explains it all: Free Your Voice: Awaken to Life Through Singing, by Silvia Nakkach and Valerie Carpenter. The book teaches how to develop one's voice through daily practice, and describes the healing power of song. It appears that not only is singing enjoyable, but it's good medicine too. When we sing, we breathe more deeply, which strengthens abdominal muscles, diaphragm and lungs, increases circulation in the body, and massages the organs. Singing releases endorphins, our natural mood lifters, which helps to build the immune system as well.
The book cites studies that show how singing in choirs reduces the symptoms of aging in senior populations. In one study the seniors, many over the age of 80, "experienced improvements in eyesight, had fewer falls, required less medications, and reported a general feeling of greater well-being and health, easier breathing, and better posture." That's great news-- apparently it's never too late to begin this practice and reap the benefits.
Tonight we had a rehearsal for Joyful Sound, and I am feeling uplifted, and very grateful for the opportunity to raise my voice in song, blending with other voices to create beautiful music together, sending good vibrations rippling out into the world. Do you feel them? :-)
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