Benefits of Singing: How to Write Songs with Singer/Songwriter, Frances Lovett

There are many benefits to singing and songwriting. In today’s episode, hear from singer/songwriter Frances Lovett (@franceslovettmusic of TikTok) about her journey writing songs and recording her first album while still in high school. 

Humans are born to be creative. However, everyone’s creative process is different. Creativity is healing the mind, body, and spirit. Watch and listen to Frances share the steps of her creative process, including the struggles and wins along the way. I guarantee that she’ll inspire you to step outside your comfort zone and tackle that dream that is niggling your heart. 

Watch How to Write Songs with Frances Lovett

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Favorite excerpts

The song “Two Kinds”

The Benefits of Singing

Singing has long been recognized as a powerful and transformative form of healing. More than just a creative outlet, singing engages the entire body, mind, and emotions in a holistic way that offers significant physical, psychological, and emotional benefits. From improving lung function and posture to lifting spirits and building community, singing provides a unique, accessible path to overall well-being that nurtures both the body and the soul.

The Physical Benefits of Singing

On a physical level, singing is a full-body activity that requires deep, controlled breathing. This action can significantly improve lung function, particularly for individuals with respiratory issues like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By practicing deep breathing techniques while singing, the lungs are exercised, increasing their capacity and efficiency. Singers often report better breath control, and some studies suggest that regular singing can enhance lung strength over time. For those dealing with stress or anxiety, this mindful use of breath can have an immediate calming effect, slowing the heart rate and reducing physical tension.

Singing also improves posture. When we sing, the body’s alignment naturally adjusts to allow for optimal vocal projection. Standing or sitting tall with shoulders back and the chest open allows the diaphragm to expand fully, improving both vocal quality and overall posture. Over time, this enhanced awareness of body alignment carries over into daily life, promoting better posture even outside of singing.

Another benefit of singing is that it increases oxygenation in the blood, which promotes cardiovascular health. The combination of deep, rhythmic breathing and vocalization increases the amount of oxygen entering the bloodstream, supporting heart function and circulation. This improved oxygen flow can lead to increased energy levels and a sense of physical vitality, making singing not only a joy for the heart in a figurative sense but also a literal boost for heart health.

The Psychological and Emotional Healing Powers of Singing

Beyond the physical benefits, singing has profound psychological and emotional impacts. Scientifically, singing has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Elevated cortisol is associated with chronic stress, which can contribute to a range of health issues, including anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure. By reducing cortisol levels, singing acts as a natural stress reliever, calming the mind and body.

Additionally, singing stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” chemicals, which naturally elevate mood and create a sense of happiness. Endorphins are responsible for the “high” people experience after exercise, but singing offers a more immediate and accessible way to tap into this emotional boost. Alongside endorphins, singing also triggers the release of oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the “love hormone.” Oxytocin enhances feelings of trust, bonding, and connection, making singing particularly effective in fostering emotional intimacy and reducing feelings of loneliness.

For individuals dealing with mental health challenges, such as depression or anxiety, singing can act as a form of therapy. The act of vocalizing and expressing emotions through song allows people to process difficult feelings in a healthy and non-verbal way. Even for those who struggle to articulate their emotions in words, singing can provide a powerful emotional outlet, offering release and comfort through melody and harmony.

Singing and Community: The Power of Belonging

One of the most therapeutic aspects of singing is its ability to foster a sense of community and belonging. This is especially true when singing in a group, whether it’s a choir, a band, or even a casual sing-along with friends. Singing in a group creates a shared experience that transcends words and brings people together in a profound way. Research has shown that singing with others synchronizes the heartbeats of participants, creating a physical and emotional connection that enhances feelings of unity and belonging.

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, where many people experience isolation and loneliness, the communal aspect of singing offers a powerful antidote. Joining a choir or singing group creates an environment where individuals can express themselves freely and feel supported by others. The act of creating music together fosters mutual understanding and collaboration, breaking down social barriers and promoting emotional resilience. Group singing has even been used as a therapeutic tool in settings like hospitals, elder care facilities, and mental health programs, where it helps individuals feel connected, supported, and heard.

Singing as a Path to Healing

Whether through the soothing melodies of a lullaby or the exuberant harmonies of a choir, singing offers a unique path to healing. It is both an individual and collective experience that touches every aspect of human life—physical, psychological, and emotional. Singing is a reminder of the beauty of human connection and expression, allowing individuals to communicate what words alone cannot. It nurtures the soul, uplifts the spirit, and strengthens the body in ways that are both subtle and profound.

For those who struggle with traditional forms of therapy or who find it difficult to verbalize their feelings, singing can offer a therapeutic alternative. Its accessibility is one of its greatest strengths—you don’t need to be a trained singer to experience the healing benefits of singing. Whether it’s singing in the shower, joining a local choir, or humming along to your favorite song, anyone can engage in this powerful practice.

Singing: A Universal Tool for Wellness

In conclusion, singing is more than just a creative pastime; it’s a universal tool for wellness that engages the body, mind, and emotions. The physical benefits of improved lung function, posture, and cardiovascular health are just the beginning. Singing’s psychological and emotional benefits—such as reduced stress, elevated mood, and enhanced feelings of belonging—make it a powerful, accessible practice for anyone seeking to improve their overall well-being. In a world that often feels disconnected, singing offers a simple but profound way to reconnect with ourselves and others, bringing healing and joy to our lives.

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