Self EXPRESS YOURSELF Singing not only makes us feel good, but it could have pain-relieving qualities, too BY RUBY DEEVOY T is the season to be jolly, so the carol goes and the season of festive music upon us. Most of us enjoy a good old sing song, especially at Christmas, making us feel happy. Whats more, as well as boosting your mood, some claim that singing can help with pain, too but how? Music is something humans have always used as medicine: Greek physicians used song to heal patients; ancient Egyptians describe musical incantations for healing the sick; and Aristotle wrote that music could arouse strong emotions and purify the soul. But it wasnt until the end of the 19th century that scientists started to find evidence for what we had been able to feel all along. Studies reported the effects of music on physiological responses, such as cardiac output, pulse rate and blood pressure. Through this research, it also became apparent that singing has tremendous therapeutic potential. A pilot study in 2016 revealed, in a group of 193 participants, that a single choir session reduced stress hormones and increased levels of immune proteins in people affected by cancer. Other studies have found a connection between singing, generally, and lessened anxiety, stimulated memory for those with dementia, increased lung capacity, decreased inflammation, raised levels of serotonin, and an easing of postpartum depression. 40 versusarthritis.org PP40-41_Inspire_Winter 2023_Singing and Pain v2.indd 40 14/11/2023 12:07