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When I was somewhere around 5 years old, I went on a long walk with my Grandmother. And we left her house totally out of sight as we journeyed to the grocery store. In my mind it was easily a walk between countries. Or at least to another state. But, as it turned out, the little mom and pop grocery store was only about 4 blocks away. And I remember my Grandmother telling me to stand up straight or I’d grow up to be a hunchback.If anyone knew how to stand up straight, it was Grandmother.
She came from a family of straight standers. And tall, too. My oldest uncle (her oldest son) was around 6’4″. So, obviously he must’ve listened to his mom when they went walking.
What made me remember all this was a bit of information I read about singing and posture. It mentioned how, when you sing, you “naturally” sit up or stand up straighter. Of course, you’ll see exceptions to that rule. But the best singers know you have to keep your diaphragm open. And good posture is the best way to do that.
And singing with good posture helps you take better care of your lungs. So, there’s that added benefit, too. Plus, there are groups of muscles called the intercostal muscles that run in between your ribs to help your chest move when you breathe. And when you sing, you give those muscles a nice little workout.
Another side benefit of singing is how it exercises your facial muscles. So, you’ll be able to smile bigger or frown with more intensity. (choose smiling, you’ll look much better)
Wow. I never realized how much Grandmother was preparing me for a career in music. Yeah, there’s a lot of sneaky wisdom in old people…if you care to listen.
Now, stand up straight and sing a song.
Even if nobody sings along.
I’m sure it’s the funnest exercise
To help you grow older, well, and wise.
Stay tuned,
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Grab yourself an un-cool T-shirt
Or how about some music for kids