So there I was, driving my three kids—Max, Jake, and little Lily—around town when I decided to crank up our favorite tunes. “Alright, kiddos,” I said, “remember, if it’s worth singing, it’s worth singing LOUD!”
And just like that, we launched into a rousing rendition of “HOW DOES A BASTARD/ ORPHAN/ SON OF A WHORE AND A SCOTSMAN/ DROPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF A FORGOTTEN SPOT IN THE CARIBBEAN…” Yep, it was Hamilton blasting through the speakers. My kids even picked up on some of the more colorful language, which prompted a little chat during our visit to Grandma about what’s appropriate to belt out in public. But every time I hear them joyfully singing “Boom goes the cannon/ Watch the blood and the shit spray,” my heart fills with pride—not just because they know the lyrics, but because they’re singing with such uninhibited joy.
The Health Benefits of Singing
The truth is, singing is great for your health, and belting it out as a group is even better. Think about it—there’s a reason why those lively drinking songs are so much fun! It’s not just fluff; there’s real science behind it. For instance, a study in London found that choral singers are less likely to snore compared to those who don’t sing. So if your partner is keeping you up at night with their snores, maybe encourage them to join a choir or just sing some manly tunes that might not be your favorite. Strengthening the muscles of the airways helps reduce those annoying nighttime sounds.
Singing can also benefit your heart. Research on choir members shows that their heart rates sync up with their breathing when singing together. The rhythm of the music can literally make their pulses rise and fall in unison. More singing means more health benefits—so while it might not give you a free pass to hit the karaoke bar every night, it certainly opens the door for more lively car sing-alongs. Just make sure to choose something a bit more exciting than “The Wheels on the Bus.”
Singing and Asthma
And here’s something interesting: singing might even help with mild asthma! A meta-analysis in 2014 revealed that singing can have positive effects on lung function, comparable to breathing exercises or playing an instrument. Plus, it boosts mood, reduces feelings of depression, and alleviates anxiety. In fact, one study found that choir members with mild depression sometimes no longer met the criteria for depression after a year of singing together. That’s pretty significant!
The Psychological Impact of Music
Studies have consistently shown that music positively impacts our mood. A piece published in the Psychology of Music found that choir singers reported higher psychological well-being compared to solo singers or team sport players. Choir members felt their groups were more meaningful and cohesive than those in sports teams. Singing really does bring people together! It releases endorphins associated with pleasure and oxytocin, the “love hormone,” while lowering cortisol levels, which is linked to stress.
Creating Joyful Family Moments
So why wouldn’t you want that for your family? I know I do! We’re going to continue belting out Hamilton at the top of our lungs—curse words and all. Whether it’s The Beatles, David Bowie, or even some of the classics, we’ll sing it loudly and proudly. We might even find ourselves in the aisles of Target singing “The Ten Duel Commandments” without a care in the world. Because that’s what family is all about—sharing those beautiful, joyous moments together.
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Conclusion
In summary, singing loudly with your family not only creates lasting memories but also contributes to physical and psychological well-being. So crank up the music and let your voices soar!
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