by David Kennet, Master Sound & Bodywork Practitioner and Visiting Master at AyurMa
Severe childhood asthma overshadowed my life as a child, serving as a relentless reminder of breath's fragility. At 18, everything changed; I had a transformative vocal lesson with Canadian musician and spiritual guide, Kenneth G. Mills. "Open your voice, take deeper breaths," he instructed, guiding me to imitate his voice. In that instant, something remarkable happened - I discovered my own voice. That moment marked the start of an extraordinary journey that would alter the course of my whole life.
The Healing Power of Singing
David singing in a tunnel beside the Seine in Paris
Shortly after I started singing, I noticed a remarkable shift in my health. My lifelong battle with asthma began to dissipate. It was as if my lungs were finding a new freedom in the act of singing. It felt like a profound liberation. As I continued to explore my voice, I realized that singing wasn't just a hobby or a passion; it was a lifeline—a source of healing that had eluded me for years. But it wasn't just physical healing; it was emotional and spiritual too. This revealed to me the complex interplay of the human mind and body, an interplay affirmed by science, religion, and spiritual practice.
Scientific and Spiritual Validation
Research has shown that singing triggers the release of endorphins and oxytocin—reducing pain and enhancing feelings of connection. Further studies have revealed singing, and even humming, increases the body's production of nitric oxide—for better circulation and oxygenation. Researchers at Frankfurt University observed that when participants sang Mozart's Requiem, they experienced a notable rise in levels of immunoglobulin A, an antibody that boosts the body's immunity.
From hymns in Christian worship to mantras in Hinduism and chants in Buddhism, vocalization is deeply intertwined with religious and spiritual practices. In Hinduism, chanting the sacred syllable AUM (or OM) is believed to align one's individual consciousness with cosmic consciousness. In Ayurvedic medicine, the fifth chakra, known as Vishuddhi chakra, is associated with communication, self-expression, and creativity, and is located at the throat.
An Empowering Journey
As psychological research has shown, by exploring the link between "sounding" and mental well-being, finding our voice can profoundly impact our self-esteem and confidence. When we embrace our voice and express ourselves authentically, we tap into a wellspring of self-assurance that transcends the limitations of illness and adversity.
Through the act of vocalization, I found a renewed sense of confidence and empowerment—an assertion of my own worth and agency in the world. My journey stands as testament to the transformative potential of vocal empowerment. It is a reminder that sometimes, the most effective medicine is found within.
An Invitation to Explore the Power of Your Own Voice
So, to anyone grappling with their own challenges, I offer this message: dare to explore the healing potential of your own voice. That’s why I am thrilled to introduce "Vocal Expansion" sessions at AyurMa this season. Whether you're an experienced vocalist, a novice, or simply seeking to enhance confidence in your speaking voice, "Vocal Expansion" sessions offer a safe and nurturing environment for exploration and growth. Through breathwork, vocal exercises, and mindfulness practices, you will learn to tap into the innate power of your voice, unlocking hidden reservoirs of creativity, confidence, and self-expression.
Join me at AyurMa at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru from May 17 to June 16, 2024, and embark on your own journey of vocal expansion, tapping into the profound power of your voice.