Blowing Your Own Horn May Enhance Health
By Tom Herrin
Adding culture to life is always a good way to spice it up. So many tend to plod along without doing anything but the same old routine. That likely includes going to work or school, eating, maybe exercising, and being entertained in some way. Most of that entertainment today is in the form of television, cell phones, or some other kind of technology. Learning to play a musical instrument, or improving the skills they already possess by practicing, may be a way for people to find some real variety. If that happens to be a brass or wind instrument, there may be quite a few benefits to health.
It May Improve Hand-Eye Coordination
There is no doubt about the fact that playing many of these instruments requires a considerable amount of dexterity. People who play such will be reading music while manipulating the method of playing with their fingers. The use of their tongue and breathing rhythm must be highly refined as well. Many people feel that those who play musical instruments will have greater abilities as students because of the relationship to reading and a few other skills necessary for success in school-related functions.
It May Make Breathing More Productive
Playing instruments that operate on air means that the player must provide that air. Of course, this is done by blowing across or through the particular instrument. It is no easy task and requires much more practice and skill than the casual observer may realize. Most of the lower sounds demand that people use full lung capacity to produce the sound. Some of the higher sounds also are created based upon more force. Believe it or not, this is not all that much different from running or any other activity that develops breathing.
It Can Be Enjoyable
Having the ability to create something is always a good feeling. Playing an instrument and hearing a pleasing sound can provide a sense of accomplishment. Many times it may boost social opportunities since jamming with several other people can be a way of doing so. I play instruments a little and, even with my limited abilities, always have a good feeling when I am able to play something and enjoy it. If you have played in the past, try practicing a little. If you have never played, there are plenty of instruments that are just waiting for you to give them a shot. It may help your health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Diego, Calif.