Singing is Good For You-The THD Chorale

Singing creates a neurochemical profile in the human brain that's hard to get any other way. When we raise our voices, the brain releases endorphins, oxytocin, and dopamine all at the same time. This combination lifts mood, cuts pain, and builds social connection. Most activities trigger one or two of these chemicals. Singing hits all three, turning the vocal cords into a natural pharmacy.

From ancient rituals to modern labs

Long before modern science could map neural pathways, ancient civilizations already knew that song could heal. Healers across many cultures used chanting and melody to treat conditions from melancholy to physical injury. Researchers today are confirming what those cultures practiced. Studies show that even a short bout of singing can drop cortisol, the main stress hormone, and boost antibody production to strengthen immune function.

The collective resonance

Group singing, in a choir or any communal gathering, makes these effects much stronger. Something called physiological synchrony kicks in, and the heart rates and breathing patterns of the singers start to fall into step.

* Oxytocin spikes during group singing, building trust and lowering social anxiety.

* Matching voices creates a strong sense of shared identity and belonging.

* Participants often describe a natural high that outlasts the song itself.

A workout for the mind

Singing also works the body and the brain in ways most people overlook. It takes tight coordination between the lungs, the vocal cords, and several brain regions that handle memory and motor control. That kind of mental exercise pays off as people get older. Regular singing has been tied to sharper concentration, stronger memory, and a lower risk of depression. Cheap, accessible, and surprisingly thorough, singing works as a real tool for staying well over a lifetime.

Sources:

Imperfect Harmony by Stacy Horn

The Journal of Behavioral Medicine

University of Oxford Social and Evolutionary Neuroscience Research Group

Singing together doesn't just feel good. It synchronizes your heartbeat with everyone around you.

A 2022 study in Hormones and Behavior confirmed oxytocin levels were significantly higher after group singing than group speaking, creating deeper biological connection than conversation alone. Research consistently shows choral singing reduces cortisol, strengthens immunity, and relieves depression and grief. Ancient cultures worldwide built communal life around song. They understood the medicine of it long before science named it

Meanwhile, Our THD Choral Group leader, Fred Lezak and our singing group here at THD has decided we will present a 40-minute concert and sing along on December 10, Thursday, at 3:30PM. There will be a few Christmas songs for sing along, one Hanukah song and a few other popular songs. Mark the date in your Calendar. We are soliciting for name and suggestion for our small singing Group. 

I am suggesting the "The THD Youngster Chorale"... Any more suggestions?  

Finally, here's a copy of our Dinner Menu for the week of September 14 to 19

Note the Spanish Paella in the Entrees. I suggested this dish to Joel, several weeks ago. My suggestion has been heard and acted. Kudos to the Joel and His Kitchen Crew and to All Management who makes the decision of what is served to us

for Dinner, Lunch and Breakfast.