Singing class: A life-changing experience
Sarah McCubbin, a 53-year-old woman from Amesbury, Wiltshire, has found a unique and powerful way to improve her health and wellbeing. After suffering from asthma and a type 2 respiratory failure, which caused dangerously low blood oxygen levels, she discovered the transformative power of singing.
The Sing and Breathe project, organized by Sounds Better CIC, has brought together hundreds of people to explore the benefits of singing. Ms. McCubbin’s story is just one of many success stories shared in a recent report.
Initially, she struggled with simple tasks like walking up stairs. But after joining the singing sessions, she noticed a remarkable change. Within a few months, she could speak entire sentences without needing to take a deep breath, and her anxiety levels decreased significantly. She exclaimed, ‘It sounds dramatic, but it was a life-saver.’
The project’s impact goes beyond individual experiences. The report highlights significant improvements in lung health and overall wellbeing for participants. People who once struggled with basic physical activities are now more active, playing with their grandchildren and walking miles. Some have even reduced their reliance on inhalers.
Liv McLennan, the director of Sounds Better CIC, explains the project’s approach. She says, ‘We help people reconnect with their bodies and teach them efficient breathing techniques.’ By focusing on nasal breathing and diaphragmatic breathing, the program empowers individuals to take control of their health.
Ms. McCubbin’s journey is a testament to the power of the Sing and Breathe project. She emphasizes the importance of finding activities that resonate with you, stating, ‘It was an eye-opener. I learned to breathe properly and use my belly.’
As the project expands to more areas, it has the potential to positively impact countless lives. Singing, an art form often associated with self-expression, has become a tool for healing and empowerment.