Can you imagine celebrating your birthday without someone singing “Happy Birthday?” It’s probably the most well known song on the planet!
Have you ever been to a wedding where there was no music in the ceremony? What about a graduation? Church service?
Is there a country in the world that has not chosen a song for its national anthem?
For the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, there was a nationwide contest to choose a song to represent the celebrations.
Music and celebration just seem to go together, don’t they?
Why is music so integral to celebration?
It bonds us together. Physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.
Over the past half-century, scientists have documented the release of the neuro hormone, oxytocin, when people play or sing music together. This is the bonding hormone.
It is why we feel so good when playing music with others. And it creates a wonderful sense of community. Have you ever been to a drum circle?
A recent study from McGill University in Montreal found that the neuro hormone, dopamine, is released when we listen to our favorite music. Dopamine is the “feel good” hormone.
“As a chemical messenger, dopamine is similar to adrenaline. Dopamine affects brain processes that control movement, emotional response, and ability to experience pleasure and pain. Regulation of dopamine plays a crucial role in our mental and physical health.”
Singing the National Anthem is a traditional part of the beginning of most sporting events. The anthem serves a deeper purpose. The music and singing bonds the fans together with the team and excites them emotionally.
Here is a cool example of Steve Perry from Journey leading the crowd in a singalong at the World Series Game 2 baseball playoff game in San Francisco (2010).
The next time you are at an event and a spontaneous singalong or dancealong begins, join in! Not only is it fun, it’s good for your health!