Singing dissipates sorrow

"Singing dissipates sorrow." - Lailah Gifty Akita

Who would have thought that something as simple as singing a ditty could be so powerful and beneficial in times of sorrow to lift the spirits?  But it works!  After more than twenty years singing solo, in choirs, and rehearsing every day, I understand what singing can do.

A quick search online presents a number of articles and studies explaining how singing and music in general:

• releases endorphins to make you feel uplifted and happy;
• lowers stress levels;
• helps with overall mental and brain health;
• improves confidence;
• is a form of release in times of sadness;
• gives you a safe space and permission to feel your emotions;
• can be used as a form of therapy (for self and others);
• changes negative emotions;
• helps with depression, and more.

We first need to acknowledge the sorrows and sadness we may be feeling in our lives and in what we witness around the world.  It is not healthy to pretend it is not there, to fabricate joy, hide what we truly feel, or to deny the anguish around or within us.  The past three years in particular - with lockdowns, isolation, restrictions, and so on - has traumatised many people.  The effects may be long-lasting.  In one form or another we have all suffered. 

While singing is not a cure-all for our most serious worries, psychological, or mental issues (please seek help from professionals if you need to), it can provide an outlet for beginning to alleviate the pain we may be holding deep within our heart, as well as opportunities to connect with others. 

Please prioritise self-care and include singing in your life.

I would love Be Free To Sing to become a community of singers who have more opportunities to gather online to connect, sing, and support each other.

Yvonne