38 Trial Lawyer • Spring 2022 By Barb Long OTLA Guardian British musician and producer Brian Eno says that “singing is the key to long life, a good figure, a stable temperament, increased intelligence, new friends, super self-confidence, heightened sexual attractiveness and a better sense of humor.” Although I can’t guarantee that singing karaoke will yield all of Eno’s promised benefits (ok, or maybe any), I strongly believe there is a song and karaoke setting that will suit you, and you will derive some health benefits from doing it. For the uninitiated, karaoke is the act of singing songs into a microphone over recorded background music. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just done in crowded bars with semi-professional singers. It can be done in restaurants, small private rooms, at home with your own karaoke machine or with a YouTube video. I have learned there is a science behind why singing and karaoke, in particular, is great for your health. And from my own experience, I also believe it might benefit your law practice. Seriously! For the skeptics out there, I want to say one thing up front: I am not what most people would consider a typical karaoke aficionado. I’m introverted, do not typically enjoy being the center of attention, often struggle with anxiety and am maybe a slightly above average singer on my best day. If I can do it, you can probably do it too. The science of group singing My feeling and belief that karaoke confers health benefits is backed by scientific studies. The deep breathing required of singing releases endorphins (the “feel good” chemicals) and stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that alleviates anxiety and stress. This benefit works in tandemwith a reduction of the stress-hormone cortisol and its attendant “fight or flight” response (though some of that is admittedly mitigated while singing in a high-stress environment such as a public forum). Taken together, it is no surprise that singing promotes well-being and happiness, and that singing has been referred to as a “nature’s anti-depressant.” Singing also improves the flow of blood and oxygen to your brain, which can improve mental alertness, concentration and memory. It’s also been shown to benefit lung function, help with grief and enhance memory for people with dementia. Singing even strengthens the immune system. A study conducted at Frankfurt University tested a group of choristers before and after singing, and found the amount of immunoglobulin (a diseasefighting antibody) was significantly higher after an hour of singing. Singing with others So maybe you’re sold on the idea of singing but would prefer to limit the act to the comfort of your car or shower. If you do, you’ll unfortunately miss out on one of the most significant benefits of group singing: social connection. It’s been shown that the greatest mental health benefits are reserved for those who combine singing and socializing. Singing is, after all, the oldest form of music creation and has played an important role in shared community experiences for every culture as far back as we can trace our human ancestors. OTLA Guardian Ben Cox says of the group singing aspect of karaoke that “talking with a therapist about your own problems might be ideal, but sometimes it’s just as helpful to scream with your friends about Fiona Apple’s problems.” (And yes, if screaming Barb Long Karaoke for you & your health
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