I plugged my phone into the car’s audio system and selected our favorite playlist. “Alright, team,” I said to my three children, “the only songs worth singing are the ones we sing loudly!” And just like that, my eight-, six-, and four-year-olds and I belted out, at the top of our lungs, “HOW DOES A BASTARD/ ORPHAN/ SON OF A WHORE AND A SCOTSMAN/ DROPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF A FORGOTTEN SPOT IN THE CARRIBBEAN…” for everyone to hear.
Yes, it was Hamilton. My kids even know the more mature parts of the lyrics, though we did have to explain to Grandma that there are some phrases we can’t sing in her house. Yet, every time I hear my kids enthusiastically singing, “Boom goes the cannon/ Watch the blood and the shit spray,” my heart swells. It’s not just that they know the music, but that they are singing — openly, joyfully, and loudly.
The bottom line is this: singing is beneficial for both your physical and psychological well-being, and singing in a group amplifies those benefits. This isn’t mere speculation; there is concrete scientific research to support these claims. For instance, a London study showed that semi-professional choral singers snored less than those who didn’t sing, revealing that strengthening the muscles of our airways can reduce disruptive nighttime noises. If your partner is a noisy sleeper, encouraging them to sing a few of their favorite songs might be the solution!
Moreover, singing has positive effects on heart health. Research on choral singers indicates that group singing helps synchronize heart rates with breathing patterns, demonstrating a profound connection between music and physiological response. So, while it may not be an excuse to head out to the bar and sing “Finnigan’s Wake,” it certainly encourages more family sing-alongs in the car — though I suggest steering clear of “The Wheels on the Bus” in favor of something a bit more engaging.
Interestingly, music can also aid in managing mild asthma. A 2014 meta-study published in Complementary Therapy Medicine identified a weak correlation between singing and improved lung function in individuals with mild asthma. While the effects may not be as strong as those from breathing exercises or playing an instrument, singing was linked to mood enhancement, reduced anxiety, and even lowered depression levels among choir members. This is significant; a year of singing sometimes led participants to no longer meet criteria for depression, highlighting the potential of music therapy.
Numerous studies confirm that music elevates mood. One investigation published in the Psychology of Music found that choral singers reported significantly higher levels of psychological well-being than solo singers or sports team participants. Choir members often perceive their group as a more cohesive and meaningful social connection compared to those in team sports. In essence, singing fosters a sense of community, releasing endorphins that are known to elicit feelings of happiness. Additionally, it triggers the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” while simultaneously lowering cortisol levels, a stress hormone.
More joy and less stress? Yes, please! Don’t you want that for your family? I certainly do for mine. So, we’ll keep blasting Hamilton and singing proudly, including the colorful language. Whether it’s The Beatles, David Bowie, or any other classics, we’ll embrace the joy of singing loudly. Soon, we might even find ourselves serenading our way through the aisles of Target, singing “The Ten Duel Commandments,” unconcerned about who might be listening. After all, it’s a beautiful and wonderful experience.
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Summary
Singing loudly has numerous benefits for families, promoting both physical health and psychological well-being. Studies show that group singing can reduce snoring, improve heart health, and enhance mood. Singing fosters community, releasing hormones that create feelings of happiness and reduce stress. Ultimately, embracing music as a family can lead to joyful experiences and stronger bonds.