The Harmony of Mind and Voice: Fiona Maria on Vocal Health and Mental Well-being

Have you ever wondered how singing can transform your mental health and well-being? What if you could discover your unique singing voice and connect with others through the power of song? In this enlightening episode, host Anthony Hartcher sits down with singing facilitator Fiona Maria to explore the profound benefits of singing for wellness.

Fiona shares her journey from performer to facilitator, revealing how singing can foster connection, enhance mood, and even improve workplace dynamics. Join us as we dive into the science behind singing, the importance of community, and how everyone can tap into their innate ability to sing. Whether you're a seasoned performer or someone who has never sung before, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your voice!

Takeaways

• Singing is a natural form of expression that everyone possesses.
• Voice shame can inhibit individuals from singing freely.
• Singing facilitates connection across generations.
• The role of a singing facilitator is to bring out innate voices.
• Singing in groups creates a sense of safety and community.
• Relaxation is key to unlocking one's singing voice.
• Singing is not just for performers; it's for everyone.
• The sound of one's own voice is comforting and safe.
• Singing can have therapeutic benefits for mental health.
• Singing together resonates at a shared frequency, enhancing connection.
• Singing releases endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin.
• Singing synchronises heartbeats and enhances group bonding.
• Singing is a self-regulatory exercise that calms the mind.
• Personal anecdotes illustrate the emotional release through singing.
• Singing has become professionalised, distancing it from its primal roots.
• Singing circles provide a sense of community and connection.
• Singing can be a powerful tool for mental health support.
• Talking is often overrated compared to the connection found in singing.
• Workplace wellness programs can benefit greatly from singing activities.
• Everyone has a singing voice and can benefit from using it.

About Fiona Maria: 

Fiona Maria is a dedicated singing facilitator with a rich background in music and performance. Growing up in a family where singing was celebrated, she developed a deep appreciation for its healing power. Transitioning from performer to facilitator, Fiona now focuses on using singing as a tool for wellness, working with diverse groups, including corporate wellness programs and intergenerational singing circles. 

Her workshops create a safe environment for participants to explore their unique singing voices and connect with others. Fiona believes that everyone has an innate ability to sing, and through her work, she fosters community and belonging, highlighting the unifying nature of music. 

 

Connect with Fiona Maria: 

Website: https://www.singhighsinglow.com.au/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/singhighsinglow/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/singhighsinglow 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-maria-09b882300/ 

About me&my health up & Anthony Hartcher       
me&my health up seeks to enhance and enlighten the well-being of others. Host Anthony Hartcher is the CEO of me&my wellness which provides holistic health solutions using food as medicine, combined with a holistic, balanced, lifestyle approach. Anthony holds three bachelor's degrees in Complementary Medicine; Nutrition and Dietetic Medicine; and Chemical Engineering.  

Chapters

00:00 Host Introduction and Guest Overview 
03:00 Fiona's Journey into Singing Facilitation 
06:49 Understanding Voice Shame and Its Effects 
10:46 Finding Your Singing Voice 
14:29 Facilitating Singing in Groups 
21:26 The Science of Singing and Its Benefits 
26:49 Singing as Self-regulation Tool 
32:37 Singing as a Tool for Mental Health and Connection 
37:30 Final Thoughts and Invitation to Participate 
39:46 Podcast Disclaimer