Wind-Powered Instruments May Boost Health
By Tom Herrin
Trying to be creative with ways to do good things for health is a challenge. It is easy to think of all kinds of things that could be done, but most of them seem pretty similar. Joining an exercise class, becoming a jogger, taking up riding a bicycle, or anything along that line are things that are common. For those who may lean toward the arts, making music can actually be a good way to shift gears and still improve health. Playing a brass or wind instrument has great potential for doing that.
It May Improve Breathing
A lot of people think of breathing as such a natural thing that they don’t consider trying to change it. When they play a horn that requires the use of wind, they have to develop some new patterns in their breathing. It can be as good as many kinds of conventional exercise. Playing the lower instruments will mean an individual will use low pressure but high volume of air. Playing the higher ones still uses a lot of lung capacity but higher pressure. Playing them can develop better habits for breathing, much the same as many kinds of exercise.
It May Improve Posture
When people play these instruments, they must sit or stand correctly in order to create the proper sound. Not only is this necessary in order to enable the diaphragm to work, but it also helps to hold up an instrument that may weigh several pounds. In the process, people will strengthen many of their core muscles. This always provides greater support for the body. It will mean less stress on parts that are often worn down by bad posture.
It May Help Relieve Stress
Everybody deals with some kind of stress. Finding ways to deal with it may mean a real difference in overall health. It can interfere with sleeping, eating, and activity. Playing a horn and making music can be a great way of releasing much of that. If you have played before, get out the horn and do a little practicing. If you never played, it can be great fun and a rewarding experience to be able to enjoy music you play yourself. There are lessons available, and starter horns can be purchased in pawn shops for a reasonable price. It will be a small price to pay for better health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in West Valley City, Utah.
