Sing Up That Oxytocin
The FurdLog points out that singing in a group raises oxytocin levels. He links to an LA Times article.
Researchers at the University of Stockholm found this effect. See:
Grape, C., Sandgren, M., Hansson, L.O., Ericson, M., and Theorell, T., Does singing promote well-being?: An empirical study of professional and amateur singers during a singing lesson. (Integrative physiological and behavioral science 2003 Jan-Mar; 38(1):65-74)
Wow. Just... Wow. My roommates and I have a strange habit of singing to music in the car together. I also use my desire to sing as a meter for how good I'm feeling.
Posted by: Neurofreak | April 29, 2007 at 01:34 PM
Cool. Now, try to see if it works the other way: See if singing makes you feel good. And let me know how that works!
I suspect that what's happening with singing is what they call "limbic resonance." Limbic resonance occurs when two (or more) people's autonomic nervous systems become attuned. Similar levels of arousal, often physical mirroring, same tone of voice. When this happens we feel really connected. Singing is a good way to create this attunement. (Unless you're like me and can't sing, and other people in the past made snippy comments, so you feel anxious when you try to sing.)
Posted by: Susan Kuchinskas | April 30, 2007 at 10:29 AM
Mmm... Nice site. I'm added you site to digg and stumble. All must know about it!
Regards from LA, USA.
Posted by: Tarupyg | December 20, 2007 at 05:13 PM
Mmm... Nice site. I'm added you site to digg and stumble. All must know about it!
Regards from LA, USA.
Posted by: Tarusei | December 20, 2007 at 05:43 PM
Thanks, Tarupyg. I'm glad you like the blog, and I appreciate the digg and stumble.
Posted by: Susan Kuchinskas | December 20, 2007 at 07:35 PM