How Singing Saved Sarah’s Breath and Boosted Her Life!

Sarah McCubbin, a 53-year-old woman from Amesbury in Wiltshire, has found a unique way to improve her health and wellbeing: singing classes. Sarah has struggled with asthma for years, and three years ago, she experienced type 2 respiratory failure, a condition that causes dangerously low levels of oxygen in the blood. After this frightening experience, Sarah began attending weekly singing sessions organized by Sounds Better CIC, a group that helps people improve their breathing and overall health through music.

Sarah describes the singing classes as a 'game-changer. ' She noticed that after a few months, she could speak in full sentences without needing to pause for a deep breath. Her anxiety also improved, and she felt more confident in her daily life. 'I know it sounds dramatic, but it was a life-saver,' she said. When Sarah first left the hospital, she needed a zimmer frame to walk. But as she continued with the singing sessions, she learned new breathing techniques, such as breathing through her nose and using her belly. Over time, she became more active and no longer needed the frame.

The benefits of the singing group extend beyond Sarah. According to a report from Sounds Better CIC, hundreds of people have experienced better lung health and increased wellbeing after joining the sessions. The organization’s director, Liv McLennan, explained that many people, whether they have breathing problems or not, forget how to breathe efficiently. The singing classes gently teach people to reconnect with their bodies and use their breath more effectively. Liv said, 'We've seen huge changes. People have gone from not being able to walk very far or up the stairs to being more active with their grandkids or children and walk miles. Some people have even been able to reduce their inhaler use. ' Liv hopes to expand the project to more areas in the future, so even more people can benefit from singing for better health. The group encourages people to share their stories and ideas, showing how music and community can make a real difference in people’s lives.