The Benefits of Singing in the Shower...
and Sauna!

by Justine Lucas

Many find solace in a ritual as old as bathing itself: singing in the water. Since the beginning of civilization, people have sung "in the shower" — only it wasn't always a shower, per say. Sometimes it was a river, a lake, or a waterfall. This ritualistic pass-time of singing has accompanied people in their bathing routine for thousands of years. A seemingly mundane act, yet it transcends mere hygiene and routine — bathing environments transform into sanctuaries where voices soar freely amidst cascading water. Serene lakesides and crashing ocean waves beckon us to unleash our voices in moments of spontaneous joy or deep reflection. These watery environments offer more than just acoustic ambiance; they serve as transformative spaces where the healing power of song meets the liberating embrace of nature. Exploring the intersection of water and song reveals a universal truth: that in these fluid realms, we discover not only freedom of expression but also profound pathways to inner peace and emotional release. But what is it about water that makes us want to sing?

In this article, we’ll explore how singing in watery environments can help improve your voice, heal whatever ails you, and help you find solace and freedom within the constraints of a busy day.

💧 The Healing Powers of Water:

Water has an essential role in sustaining life, this we know. But it also possesses remarkable healing powers that have been celebrated by many cultures around the globe for thousands of years. From ancient times to modern therapies, its gentle embrace has been recognized for its ability to soothe both body and spirit. Whether through the tranquil rhythm of waves lapping on a shore, the invigorating rush of a waterfall's cascade, or the calming flow of a babbling brook, water offers therapeutic benefits that rejuvenate and restore. Its touch can alleviate physical ailments, from sore muscles to inflammation, while its mere presence fosters mental clarity and emotional balance. As we immerse ourselves in its purity, water not only cleanses but also replenishes, reminding us of the profound connection between nature's simplicity and our well-being.

🎙 The Healing Powers of Singing:

Singing possesses a profound ability to heal, transcending its role as a form of artistic expression. Through the vibration of vocal cords, singing resonates within us, touching emotional depths and physical sensations alike. Whether in solo practice or communal harmony, the act of singing releases endorphins, reducing stress and anxiety while enhancing mood and overall well-being. Its therapeutic effects extend beyond the individual, fostering bonds and creating a sense of unity within groups. Across cultures and centuries, singing has been revered for its capacity to heal the spirit, offering solace in times of sorrow and celebration in moments of joy. As voices merge in melody, the healing power of singing reminds us of our innate connection to rhythm, melody, and the universal language of music.

1. The Power of the Shower - 

Singing in the shower offers more than just a joyful start to the day; it provides significant health benefits that extend beyond the bathroom walls. The steam and warm water help relax muscles and vocal cords, making it easier to hit those high notes with clarity and ease. This act stimulates deep breathing, enhancing oxygen flow and cardiovascular health. Moreover, singing releases endorphins, reducing stress and boosting mood, promoting a sense of well-being that lingers long after the last note fades. As a form of self-expression, it fosters confidence and creativity, while the privacy of the shower allows for uninhibited vocal exploration without fear of judgment. Whether belting out favorite tunes or quietly humming melodies, the therapeutic effects of singing in the shower are undeniable, nurturing both body and soul in the comforting embrace of water.

2. Sauna Prana - 

Saunas offer a myriad of health benefits that extend well beyond relaxation. The intense heat promotes sweating, which helps detoxify the body by flushing out toxins and impurities through the pores. This process also improves circulation, enhancing cardiovascular health and lowering blood pressure. Breathing in the humid, warm air of a sauna opens up the airways and can provide relief for respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Some liken the sauna experience to returning to a womb-like environment, where the enveloping heat and darkness create a sense of security and comfort. In this setting, sensory deprivation can induce a meditative state, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity. Adding to the therapeutic effects, singing in a sauna amplifies these benefits by combining the healing power of music with the sauna's physical and psychological benefits, fostering a holistic approach to wellness within the comforting heat and stillness of the sauna environment. 

This womb-like space creates the perfect environment for singing from your Sacral chakra. The Sacral chakra is the energy center associated with emotions, creativity, and the water element. Similar to a womb or cave environment, the sauna's warmth and darkness create a cocoon-like atmosphere that nurtures the emotional body. This setting encourages introspection and relaxation, facilitating the release of emotional blockages and fostering a sense of security and creativity. The sauna's heat stimulates circulation and detoxification, aligning with the sacral chakra's role in maintaining fluidity and balance in one's emotional and creative expression.

3. Bath Hatha - 

Taking a bath offers a multitude of health benefits that extend far beyond mere cleanliness. Immersing oneself in warm water induces deep relaxation, easing muscle tension and promoting overall calmness. This immersion also improves blood circulation and can help alleviate joint pain and inflammation. Bathing in a tub filled with water can evoke a sense of connection to natural environments like lakes or rivers, where the gentle embrace of water mirrors the soothing effect on the soul. The tranquility of a bath allows for introspection and rejuvenation, providing a sanctuary from daily stresses. Singing in the bathtub further enhances these benefits, as the acoustics of the bathroom amplify one's voice and create a personal concert hall. The combination of warm water, serenity, and the therapeutic power of music makes taking a bath not only a cleansing ritual but also a revitalizing experience for both body and spirit.

4. Spa Chi - 

Spending a day in a spa provides a comprehensive range of health benefits, focusing on physical rejuvenation and mental relaxation. Hot tubs offer soothing warmth that relaxes muscles, improves circulation, and relieves joint pain, while cold tubs aid in faster muscle recovery and reduce inflammation by stimulating blood flow. Steam rooms and dry saunas induce sweating, aiding detoxification, improving skin tone, and enhancing respiratory function. Mud baths, rich in minerals, detoxify the skin, exfoliate dead cells, and can alleviate skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. The spa environment, with its dim lighting and comforting warmth akin to a sanctuary or cave, promotes deep relaxation and stress reduction, providing a respite from daily demands. 

After immersing oneself in these therapeutic experiences, singing becomes not only easier but also deeply enhanced by the profound relaxation achieved. This state nurtures a clearer, more controlled voice, benefiting from relaxed muscles and expanded lung capacity for improved breath control and vocal tone. Singing after a spa day offers spiritual benefits as well, connecting to emotions and fostering a sense of liberation. This emotional release through song can elevate mood, reduce stress, and contribute to overall well-being, harmonizing mind, body, and spirit in a holistic approach to health and rejuvenation.

5. Bedroom Spa Time - 

Achieving the deep relaxation akin to a spa day can be cultivated right in the comfort of your own bedroom through simple yet effective practices. Setting a serene ambiance with soft lighting, calming scents from essential oils, and soothing background music can create a tranquil atmosphere conducive to relaxation. Engaging in mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises or meditation helps to quiet the mind and release tension from the body. Incorporating gentle stretches or practicing progressive muscle relaxation can further alleviate physical stress. Finally, taking a warm bath before bed not only promotes muscle relaxation but also mimics the therapeutic effects of hydrotherapy experienced in a spa setting. By integrating these practices into your bedtime routine, you can cultivate a peaceful sanctuary in your bedroom that promotes deep relaxation and rejuvenation.

6. Steam Room or Green Room? - 

You can also take these at-home spa vibe practices into the green room with you at your next show or public speaking event! I myself have a ritual of silent meditation, mantras, 5 minutes of complete solitude before I step onto the stage.

Backstage, preparing for a performance involves more than just vocal warm-ups; it's about nurturing your entire being through spa-related self-care practices. Start by soothing your body with a warm soak in a tub or shower to relax muscles and ease tension. Applying a hydrating face mask or indulging in a quick facial massage can refresh your skin and promote a radiant complexion under stage lights. Engage in deep breathing exercises or meditation to calm nerves and center your mind, ensuring focus and presence on stage. Hydrate with herbal teas or infused water to maintain vocal clarity and overall well-being. Lastly, vocal warm-ups in a quiet space help to limber up vocal cords and ensure your voice is ready to perform at its best. By incorporating these spa-inspired rituals backstage, you not only prepare your voice but also nourish your soul and enhance your overall performance experience.

There's no half-singing in the shower, you're either a rock star or an opera diva."                                      — Josh Groban, singer & musical theatre actor

The simple act of singing and bathing at the same time provides a therapeutic experience that nurtures both body and spirit. The combination of warm water, privacy, and the natural acoustics of the bathroom creates a sanctuary for self-expression and emotional release. Physically, singing in the shower promotes deep breathing, which enhances oxygen flow and can alleviate stress. Emotionally, it uplifts mood, releases endorphins, and fosters a sense of joy and creativity. Whether belting out favorite tunes or quietly humming melodies, this simple act can significantly contribute to overall well-being, making singing in the shower a delightful and beneficial ritual for anyone seeking moments of relaxation and rejuvenation in their daily routine.

6/22/2024 ARTICLE WRITTEN BY JUSTINE LUCAS, FOUNDER OF SOMATIC SINGING