The Link Between Singing and Better Energy, Sleep, and Focus

Ah, September… The summer holidays fade and suddenly it’s back to school runs, college schedules, after-school activities, packed lunches, homework, and endless to-do lists. It can take time to settle into the rhythm again, and the shift often leaves us feeling a little sluggish in the mornings or drained by the end of the day.

So who wouldn’t welcome a little extra support when it comes to better sleep, clearer focus, and more energy?

Most of us think of singing as something joyful or creative—but did you know your voice can also be a tool for better rest, sharper concentration, and renewed vitality? Researchers and health organisations are beginning to uncover just how powerful singing can be for body and mind.

Singing for Better Sleep

Daily vocal exercises don’t just strengthen your voice—they also work the muscles of your throat and soft palate. Studies in the UK found that simple singing routines reduced snoring and daytime tiredness. One well-known trial tested a program called Singing for Snorers, created by voice coach Alise Ojay. After three months, participants snored less and felt less sleepy during the day.

Even gentle humming before bed has been shown to increase nitric oxide in the sinuses and support calmer, easier breathing at night.

Singing for Energy and Vitality

Have you ever noticed how you feel lighter, brighter, or more “alive” after singing? Science backs that up.

Research led by Dr Daisy Fancourt (UCL) studied people affected by cancer who sang in weekly choirs. Just one hour of singing lowered cortisol (the stress hormone) and lifted mood. Over time, people reported feeling more energetic and resilient.

Similarly, national programs like Tenovus Cancer Care’s Sing with Us choirs and Asthma + Lung UK’s Singing for Lung Health have found that singing regularly leaves people less drained and better able to cope with daily life.

Singing for Focus and Clarity

When we sing, our breathing naturally slows into longer exhalations. This rhythm synchronises heart rate and breathing—a phenomenon researchers call respiratory sinus arrhythmia. The effect is similar to meditation, helping the nervous system settle and the mind become clearer.

Studies by Björn Vickhoff and Gunter Kreutz have shown that group singing can bring people’s heart rhythms into sync, creating a sense of calm and focus. Early research also suggests regular singing may support verbal fluency and keep the mind sharp in later life, but more studies are needed on this.

Bringing It Into Your Life

The best part? You don’t need to join a choir (though that’s wonderful too!) to benefit. Try humming before bed to unwind, singing a short warm-up in the morning, or belting out a favourite tune when your focus dips. Notice how quickly your energy, sleep, and clarity shift.

The takeaway: Singing is far more than music—it’s medicine for your body and mind. Whether you’re looking for better sleep, more energy, or sharper focus, your voice might be the most accessible tool you already have.

References & Further Reading

• Ojay, A. Singing for Snorers trials – daily vocal exercises reduced snoring and tiredness.

• Puhan, M.A. et al. (BMJ, 2006): Didgeridoo playing and sleep apnea study.

• Weitzberg, E. & Lundberg, J. (2002): Humming boosts nitric oxide, improving sinus airflow.

• Fancourt, D. et al. (UCL, 2016): Choir singing lowered cortisol and boosted vitality.

• Philip, K.E.J. et al. (2024): Online Singing for Lung Health trial in COPD.

• Vickhoff, B. (2013): Choir singing synchronises heart rate and breathing.