Longevity Secret of Orchestra Conductors
In a recent breathing workshop I took, our teacher, Linda MacDonald, presented the participants with an article about the longevity of orchestra conductors that I wanted to share because I found it very interesting.
Were you aware that orchestra conductors live longer than almost any other groups of people? Many famous conductors lived into their 80s and 90s when the average life expectancy was only 50. These conductors include Leopold Stokowski who lived to 95, Pablo Casals at 96, Nadia Boulanger at 90 and Arturo Toscanini at 89.
These conductors not only lived a long life, but they were vital and vibrant into their later years. Researchers at first thought that it was the exposure to music over long periods of time that enhanced their longevity, but this longevity did not prove true for other musicians.
The secret lies in the arm movement or “wing flapping” that conductors do in a very vigorous manner while performing. Research supports that upper body exercises provide better cardiovascular workout than lower body exercises such as walking, jogging or bicycling. So, rather than killing yourself running or jogging, you can get a good workout by spending ten minutes a day doing simple conducting movements.
Upper body movements expand the muscles of the chest and open the lungs. When the lungs are expanded, oxygen floods the body. In addition, the heart pumps more vigorously propelling blood to muscles and organs. When blood and oxygen can reach tight constricted areas blood pressure becomes lower and better circulation is provided for the brain which helps sharpen your thinking.
What a deal for such a simple activity!! The next time, you’re slumped over your desk and feeling fatigued, take a break by getting up, expanding your chest and flap away for a few minutes. I bet you’ll feel better.
In a recent breathing workshop I took, our teacher, Linda MacDonald, presented the participants with an article about the longevity of orchestra conductors that I wanted to share because I found it very interesting.
Were you aware that orchestra conductors live longer than almost any other groups of people? Many famous conductors lived into their 80s and 90s when the average life expectancy was only 50. These conductors include Leopold Stokowski who lived to 95, Pablo Casals at 96, Nadia Boulanger at 90 and Arturo Toscanini at 89.
These conductors not only lived a long life, but they were vital and vibrant into their later years. Researchers at first thought that it was the exposure to music over long periods of time that enhanced their longevity, but this longevity did not prove true for other musicians.
The secret lies in the arm movement or “wing flapping” that conductors do in a very vigorous manner while performing. Research supports that upper body exercises provide better cardiovascular workout than lower body exercises such as walking, jogging or bicycling. So, rather than killing yourself running or jogging, you can get a good workout by spending ten minutes a day doing simple conducting movements.
Upper body movements expand the muscles of the chest and open the lungs. When the lungs are expanded, oxygen floods the body. In addition, the heart pumps more vigorously propelling blood to muscles and organs. When blood and oxygen can reach tight constricted areas blood pressure becomes lower and better circulation is provided for the brain which helps sharpen your thinking.
What a deal for such a simple activity!! The next time, you’re slumped over your desk and feeling fatigued, take a break by getting up, expanding your chest and flap away for a few minutes. I bet you’ll feel better.
