How opera singing is helping people to manage chronic pain

June Evans, a 67-year-old woman, has found that learning to sing opera has helped her manage her long-term pain and has given her a renewed enthusiasm for life. After suffering from a heart attack, a stroke, and other health issues, June was referred to the Welsh National Opera (WNO) wellness program. This program is designed to help people with various health conditions learn techniques used by opera singers to manage their persistent pain. June, who lives in Powys, shared that the program has significantly improved her physical health and has made her want to live life to the fullest again. The WNO reported that two-thirds of the participants in the online course have noticed improvements in their health. The program, which is funded by the Welsh government, is a one-year pilot initiative aimed at individuals living with chronic pain, including conditions like lower back pain and fibromyalgia. An evaluation of the program found that 67% of participants experienced reduced pain and improved functionality, along with emotional and mental benefits. June explained, 'We focus on how we sit, which helps improve our posture. We do breathing exercises that enhance our breathing, and then we warm up our voices in a fun way. ' She added, 'Making sounds and moving while singing is incredibly enjoyable. The entire hour is filled with fun. It provides a break from the difficulties of life. It has dramatically changed my life. ' Referrals to the WNO program primarily come from pain management teams across Welsh health boards, but some individuals have also chosen to self-refer. It is estimated that the course saves the NHS in Wales more than £20 per person per hour, as it reduces the need for health boards to create their own programs. Owen Hughes, the national clinical lead for persistent pain at NHS Wales, explained that chronic pain is partly caused by the nervous system becoming overly stimulated, sending messages to the brain that something is wrong long after the body has healed. He stated, 'Singing is excellent for calming the nervous system. There is a nerve called the vagus nerve that runs through the diaphragm, which is essential for both breathing and singing. When we engage our diaphragm, it stimulates the vagus nerve, which helps calm our nervous system. ' The breathing and singing sessions are led by professionally trained opera performers online. Participants can join from the comfort of their homes and are not required to turn on their cameras or microphones. Mezzo-soprano Kate Woolveridge mentioned, 'It’s a community on Zoom where everyone is muted, but they are all singing together and sharing experiences. We even sing a song in Zulu, which many would never have thought they would be singing. It helps take your mind off the pain because you focus on learning the Zulu words. ' Kate also noted that the program has allowed participants to sing alongside WNO performers, giving them 'something special' to discuss. The WNO expressed that additional funding would enable them to expand the wellness program to benefit more individuals. Kate explained, 'Initially, it started as a way to help people with their breathing and lung capacity, but as we progressed, we saw a broader positive impact on their lives. ' A spokesperson for the Welsh government stated, 'The Welsh National Opera's Managing Persistent Pain program has improved the physical and mental health of many individuals in Wales living with chronic pain. It equips participants with skills to manage their symptoms and take greater control of their health and well-being. We continue to collaborate with WNO and NHS Wales to explore future opportunities for this program as a valuable intervention in our communities.