Singing your way to a stronger immune system

For centuries, humans have turned to singing for joy, solace, and community. But recent research suggests that the benefits of singing may go beyond emotional well-being, it may give your immune system a short-term boost, too.

The science behind the song

A landmark study with choir members, including cancer patients, carers, and bereaved relatives, revealed that just one hour of group singing can trigger measurable changes in the body’s immune response. Saliva samples taken before and after the session showed increased levels of immune-signaling proteins, known as cytokines, and lower levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Participants also reported improved mood, with heightened positive emotions and reduced stress.

“Reduced cortisol may release the brakes on the immune system, allowing it to activate more effectively,” the study notes, though researchers caution that these are short-term effects.

The antibody connection

Beyond cytokines, singing appears to boost secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), an antibody that plays a key role in protecting the upper respiratory tract. In one study, amateur choir members who sang for 60 minutes showed a significant rise in sIgA levels, while those who simply listened to music saw smaller or negligible changes.

This suggests that active participation, actually singing, is key to triggering these immune benefits.

Mood matters

Singing doesn’t just engage the body; it engages the mind. Positive emotional states, enhanced social connection, and stress reduction may all contribute to short-term immune improvements. However, context matters. Professional singers performing under high-stress conditions sometimes show increased cortisol levels, which can counteract the immune boost.

While singing is not a cure-all or a replacement for vaccines or medical care, the evidence suggests it’s a powerful, low-cost way to support well-being and immunity, at least temporarily. For community choirs, therapy programs, or solo singing at home, it’s an accessible way to nurture both mind and body.

Researchers caution that more work is needed to understand how long the immune effects last, how repeated singing sessions contribute over time, and how different populations, from healthy adults to those with chronic illnesses, respond.

Singing may be fun, uplifting, and social, but it’s also a scientifically backed nudge for your immune system. In just one hour, your body can show measurable changes that prime it for better resilience. So, next time life gets stressful, consider turning up the volume: your immune system might thank you.