Sometimes help for wellness issues may come from an unexpected source. Research suggests that singing is more than an enjoyable pursuit—it may promote better health in people with certain conditions.
Because the act of singing exercises muscles involved in breathing and speaking, the possible benefits include improved breathing in those with lung conditions and decreased speech impairment in those with Parkinson’s disease. Singing may also foster psychological health, as some studies indicate it boosts mood.
Kirsti Jane attests to the power of singing to transform mood. She has anxiety and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of premenstrual syndrome, which can cause depression and thoughts of suicide.
“I run my own business, so experiencing debilitating anxiety and depression for 2 to 3 weeks per month just isn’t practical,” she told The Epoch Times in an email. “At one point, it was so bad that I was having suicidal thoughts every month and could barely sleep because my anxiety was so high about everything.”
Jane found that singing is a great tool to help ease her anxiety, and it helps keep her PMDD under control. She engages in weekly one-on-one singing lessons and attends a weekly musical theatre group.
Singing for COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) primarily refers to emphysema and chronic bronchitis—conditions that cause airflow obstruction from airway inflammation, loss of small airways, excess mucus secretion, and thickened airway muscles. These effects lead to breathing difficulties that worsen with exercise.
The results indicated that while research on the topic is limited and of generally low quality, there is good theoretical reasoning to support the use of singing to improve lung function and breathing in people with COPD. The authors noted that breathing and singing are closely related.
Explaining the theoretical reasoning to The Epoch Times in an email, Dr. Andrew Youssouf, a physician and medical director at Ikon Recovery, noted that singing addresses some of the specific lung function problems that manifest in COPD.
“Many people with COPD tend to take quick, shallow breaths, which can lead to feelings of breathlessness and fatigue,” he said. Because singing involves long, controlled breaths, it helps strengthen the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles—improving lung function and breath control over time, which can make everyday tasks easier to manage.
According to Youssouf, singing naturally mimics pursed-lip breathing, a technique often recommended to COPD patients. This form of breathing helps keep the airways open longer, which reduces air trapping and facilitates the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Singing also aids people in developing better breathing patterns that are especially beneficial during episodes of shortness of breath.
“Although singing is not a substitute for medications, inhalers, or pulmonary rehabilitation, it is a simple, enjoyable, low-risk activity that can strengthen the lungs, improve breath control, and enhance overall well-being,” said Youssouf.
Asthma shares several symptoms with COPD, and singing may offer similar benefits for people with the condition. Filipp Egorov, a trained opera singer and the CEO and founder of Oumua, told The Epoch Times that singing played a key role in managing his asthma.
“Singing and breathwork exercise allowed me to wean off my inhaler and corticosteroids,” said Egorov. “I haven’t used them in three years.”
Singing for Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological condition that primarily manifests in movement abnormalities. Parkinson’s also impairs muscles involved in speaking, resulting in speech impairments including the inability to speak loudly.Singing for Improved Mood
When Jane feels particularly anxious or experiences worsened PMDD symptoms, she schedules some singing time in her house as part of her routine.“I throw on some music and sing my way through the day. I almost lose myself in the singing,” she said.
“With PMDD I'd say it was probably a good few weeks before I really noticed a difference, but with general anxiety, I found it made a difference almost immediately,” Jane said
Research suggests that singing, particularly in group settings, can elevate mood, encourage relaxation, and strengthen social connection, according to Youssouf.
There are several mechanisms that underlie the mood-boosting effects of singing, Holly Ann Schiff, a licensed clinical psychologist at South County Psychiatry in Rhode Island, told The Epoch Times.
According to Schiff, singing releases endorphins—the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals—which boost feelings of pleasure and contribute to a more positive mood. It also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body recover from stress and fosters a sense of calm.
Additionally, singing promotes mindfulness, by directing attention to the melody, lyrics, and rhythm, providing a mental break from daily stressors.
“When singing is done in a group, it promotes social connection and a sense of community, both of which can improve mood.”
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