Monday, July 18, 2011

Sing up for health

On Private Passions yesterday Helen Dunmore talked about the special magic of Singing Together at school, live to the BBC radio broadcast.

As soon as she mentioned South Australia in the lead in to her chosen recording, the song came flooding back to me, even though I probably haven’t even thought about it for over half a century now.

Which reminds me to mention my disappointment at the fact that the new physical activity guidelines for Older Adults (65+ years) from the four home countries' Chief Medical Officers, while suggesting ballroom dancing, do not include singing.

A friend used to try to persuade me to join a choir with her, on the grounds that when we were confined to our beds in the old ladies home, singing would be the only exercise we could get.

And seriously, even just listening to music can promote some kind of movement & improved breathing, even in those who can do more, as well as providing a real improvement in emotional well being.