SING FOR JOY

The Sing for Joy choir is about getting the community together and in a safe space, allowing ourselves to explore and express our voice in a myriad of ways. This helps us go deeper into the different aspects of ourselves, and helps us notice what aspects need to be more prominent, or perhaps needs to become more sensitive or quiet. 

We not only go deeper into ourselves but we can enjoy the physical health benefits of singing, as well as mental and social benefits when singing with a group of people.

Here are some physical, mental, and social benefits to singing with a group.

Physical health

  1. Singing drops Cortisol levels: Singing with a group of people is proven to drop cortisol levels which is the main stress hormone in your body. 

  2. Heart beats synchronize and beat in matching patterns: breath is coordinated and heart rates and heart rate patterns synchronize. 

  3. Boosts immunity: boosts immune system antibodies (like Immunoglobulin A) and increases illness-fighting proteins.

  4. Lung health: Singing is an aerobic exercise which increases lung capacity and posture.

  5. Stimulates the vagus nerve: A nerve which is in charge of our rest/digest parasympathetic nervous system. It is responsible for our calm response, slowing heart rate and sending calming signals to the body. 

Mental health

  • Brain Activation: Singing lights up a wide network of neurons across both sides of the brain, handling language, movement, and emotion and stimulates neuroplasticity. 

  • Feel-Good Chemicals: It triggers dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which boost joy and happiness.

  • Anxiety Relief: being part of a group and a sense of belonging as well as sharing emotions while singing can release anxiety. 

Social Well being 

Make friends: Singing helps to bond people together, sharing song and expressing emotions can help make friends faster.

Combats loneliness: Having a group activity can make all the difference especially to someone who is new to the region or even a local looking to meet like minded people. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

I don’t have any singing experience. Will I be able to sing with the group? 

Yes. All voices are welcome (beginners and experienced), and you don’t need to be able to read music at all. Songs will be taught with and without reading notes and will be taught mostly by ear. 

What songs will we sing?

Anything from old classics to new and modern, gospel, and in general music that touches our hearts and also uplifts us. 

Where is it held? 

The song circles will be held in Larnaca, Aradippou ,close to the metropolis mall. The exact location will be sent to each person individually. 

How should I prepare for the sessions? 

There is absolutely no need to prepare for the class. If you have time and would like, you can always practice the songs at home but it is not mandatory. We will learn the songs together in class slowly and there is absolutely not pressure. 

I have more questions. Who can I contact? 

Please contact Irene Athanasiou at helloireneathanasiou@gmail.com