Singing is Great for your Mental Health--Even Psychology Today is joining the party!

Now that Psychology Today is citing this, is utilizing singing for mental health finally considered legitimate? Okay, okay, I'm being cheeky here. As a music therapist who often works with clients by singing together, I sometimes feel like I have to work hard to be taken seriously by other mental health professionals, despite growing evidence of music's power - and singing's power to promote better health outcomes. On the other hand, here we are! Although Psychology Today is a magazine and not a scholarly source, it boasts a readership of two and a half million people! So I'm psyched about this coverage citing music and specifically singing. The more people who understand the incredible power of music for our well-being the better.

The Science and Soul of Sound

It's exciting to see the growing body of research supporting what we music therapists experience every day. The Psychology Today article, "The Song of Therapy," by Sam Goldstein, Ph.D., really highlights how deeply music affects our brains and bodies. The article delves into how music can enhance cognitive function, emotional regulation, and even physical coordination. It's not just "feel-good" stuff; there's real science behind it.

Think about it: have you ever noticed how a particular song can instantly shift your mood? Or how singing along to your favorite tune can make you feel more energized, even when you were feeling down? That's your brain responding to music in powerful ways. Music engages multiple areas of the brain, including those responsible for emotion, memory, motor control, and language. This widespread activation is what makes music such a potent therapeutic tool. It can bypass some of the defenses we build up and access deeper parts of ourselves.

Singing ain't just ... singing: it's singing for mental health

On my own blog, I've often talked about the sheer joy and release that comes from singing. It’s a primal act, something humans have done for millennia. And it’s not just for the "talented" among us. Every single person has a voice, and every single voice has value.

When you sing, you're not just producing sound. You're engaging your breath, your diaphragm, your vocal folds - your whole body has the opportunity to get into the act. This in and of itself can be incredibly beneficial. But there's more: The Psychology Today article notes that singing requires and conveys breath control, vocal tone, timing, and intensity, all of which correlate with emotional states. Beyond the physical, there's the emotional release. Singing can be a powerful way to express feelings that might be difficult to put into words. There’s a vulnerability in singing, but also an immense strength. It’s about being present in the moment and allowing yourself to feel.

Connection and Community Through Song

One of the most beautiful aspects of music, and especially singing, is its ability to connect us. The Psychology Today article reinforces this, explaining that music may have evolved to strengthen social cohesion. Whether it’s singing in a choir, joining a drumming circle, or simply belting out a pop song with friends in the car, music creates bonds. When we make music together, our heart rates and breathing can synchronize, promoting physiological coherence and empathy. This is something I see in my own practice all the time—barriers break down and people find a sense of belonging. The article even mentions that a systematic review of active singing interventions reveals that group singing can enhance mood, reduce anxiety, and improve the quality of life for diverse populations, including trauma survivors. Imagine a group of strangers, brought together by a shared love for music. They might not speak the same language, but when they sing together, they create something beautiful and harmonious. That’s the power of music not only to unite, but utilizing singing for mental health benefits. As Dr. Goldstein highlights in Psychology Today, music is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon with profound effects on our minds and bodies. From enhancing cognitive function to fostering social connection, its benefits are far-reaching. The article says that music may be as evolutionarily fundamental as speech, and perhaps even preceded it - something music therapy in academia is still debating, I am sure! There is plenty of evidence though, that singing is a powerful, accessible way to tap into these benefits. So, how can we incorporate more of this musical goodness into our daily lives? You don't need to be a professional musician or even "good" at singing to reap the benefits. If you're not convinced that singing is for you, there are other ways to make music a part of your routine. Cornball alert! Take a daily dose of Vitamin M! It comes in many varieties. And it won't hurt if you forget, and you'll feel better when you remember.

Vitamin M - easy to swallow, easy to follow!

Here are some ways to get your daily dose of Vitamin M:

• Embrace your shower concerts: Seriously! Let loose and sing your favorite songs in the shower. No one's listening, and it's a fantastic way to release tension and start your day with energy.

• Create mood-boosting playlists: Have a playlist for every mood. Need to get energized? Have a high-energy dance playlist. Need to relax? Create a calming one.

• Explore group singing: Look for local choirs, community sing-alongs, or even karaoke nights. The shared experience is incredibly rewarding.

• Use music for focus: Instrumental music can be a great way to improve concentration while working or studying. Experiment with different genres to see what works best for you.

• Mindful listening: Instead of just having music on in the background, take a few minutes to truly listen. Notice the instruments, the melodies, the lyrics. Let yourself be fully immersed.

Let Music Be Your Everyday Medicine

In the end, whether you’re singing in the shower, harmonizing with friends, or simply letting a favorite melody wash over you, remember that music is more than just entertainment—it’s a vital tool for well-being. The growing recognition of music therapy, as highlighted in mainstream publications like Psychology Today, is a testament to its transformative power. So, give yourself permission to embrace music in whatever way feels right for you. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you. Keep singing, keep listening, and let music be your daily companion on the journey to better health and deeper connection.