Singing can energize and uplift. Linked to breathing and body awareness, it is especially beneficial. A doctoral student of musicology believes karaoke is a valuable activity.
Music communicates emotions and messages without words. Veeda Kala, a junior researcher and doctoral student at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theater (EMTA), explains that music is structured sound within a form.
People perceive harmonious sounds as comforting and dissonant sounds as discomforting or dangerous. Music unites people by offering shared experiences and allowing emotions to be communicated beyond language barriers.
When singing karaoke, people sense the rhythm and melody, fostering a shared experience and emotional connection. Singing karaoke allows people to express emotions and share them, building social bonds.
Singing Together Activates Mirror Neurons
When someone sings and others join, it activates mirror neurons in the brain. These neurons help people understand others' actions and feelings, fostering empathy. This might explain why some people enjoy sad music—it makes them feel understood.
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Kala emphasizes the importance of lyrics in karaoke. "With karaoke, we're active participants, which creates expectations for the music." Participation, whether as a listener or singer, enhances connection.
Karaoke focuses on self-expression rather than vocal skills. It usually occurs in social settings, where people sing for others and listen to someone sing. "The singer senses the audience and conveys the song's message with pre-recorded professionals," Kala notes. Singing karaoke gives attention and recognition, leading to a sense of achievement and a dopamine release, making us feel good.
Kala also mentions singing during winter swimming. "Entering cold water makes your breath catch, but singing helps control this." Singing regulates breathing, inducing a calming effect. It also boosts immunoglobulin A levels, benefiting the immune system. "So we could say 'Sing and be healthier!'"
In conclusion, singing karaoke is more than just a fun pastime. It connects people, allowing them to express emotions, achieve satisfaction, and cultivate social bonds. Singing calms the body and releases happiness hormones, creating a sense of community and shared musical experiences.
