Sing your heart out and keep body and soul in tune

No longer are we a nation of unfound talent; with so many shows on the box, 'ordinary people' now have the chance to perform on stage in front of cameras and TV personalities. The latest talent show to go live in front of a crowd is 'The Voice'. So, as the final gets closer, will you be singing your heart out in front of your TV?

Exercise a healthy voice

This fashionable hobby has many health benefits.  According to Professor Grenville Hancox, Director of the Sidney de Haan Research Centre in Canterbury, the "evidence on the physical and psychological benefits of singing is quite substantial and is increasing in depth and significance all the time".  Singing exercises your lungs and vocal chords, increases breathing capacity and is great for your heart too as it can lower blood pressure and cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. Singing may also help to cope with chronic pain, act as an anti-depressant and boost the immune system. It can promote self-esteem and lift your mood too, so why not belt out a few tunes to release those everyday stresses?

Bringing happier people together

Singing brings people together. If you don't feel quite ready to showcase on live TV, why not check out local choirs, drama groups or singing workshops near you for a great vocal-chord workout and make new friends at the same time?

Singing is a great way to de-stress, have fun and care for your heart. Best of all, it's free and you can do it pretty much anywhere. Whether singing alone in the shower, in the car, while vacuuming, at a karaoke with friends, in front of an audience or even the nation, release any tension by cranking up your voice, belting out your favourite songs and tuning into a healthy heart.

Sing out loud, sing out strong - it speaks volumes for your heart.

For more information and advice about healthy living, visit heartresearch.org.uk.