New online singing classes for those suffering from lung conditions, including long covid, will be available at the end of this month.

The Breath Cycle sessions organised by Scottish Opera see a team of musicians introduce participants to singing to improve their physical and mental health, with support from NHS consultants and physiotherapists.

First launched in 2013 for cystic fibrosis patients, the first sessions took place at the end of 2021, while the new classes will begin online on January 26, with a third block starting in April. 

Organisers say Breath Cycle has been highly successful in its first term, with participants reporting improvement in a range of areas, such as anxiety, loneliness and confidence in addition to benefits to their physical health. 

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During a series of relaxed and sociable weekly sessions, participants are introduced into fun and stimulating songs, vocal exercises and breathing techniques. 

The benefits of singing include improved lung function, posture and circulation, a strengthened immune system and core, better breath control, as well as relief from stress and anxiety. 

Jane Davidson, Scottish Opera’s director of outreach and education said: ‘We’re delighted to be able to offer the programme for a second term starting in January. 

“The Breath Cycle workshops have proven to be a perfect way for our participants, all of whom suffer from Long Covid or other long term lung conditions, to take a moment for their own wellbeing each week. 

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“Working across both singing and songwriting workshops led by our highly skilled and experienced professional artists, Breath Cycle group members are able to learn new skills in singing, which enables them to improve breathing and posture. 

“Most importantly, the programme is fun and delivered in a relaxed way, meaning that group members often take part for social reasons above everything else.’

Gordon MacGregor, respiratory consultant at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, said: “Breath Cycle has been a fantastic project which was first launched in 2013 for people with Cystic Fibrosis. 

“These new sessions provide a platform to work with patients with a range of lung conditions which allows them to exercise their lungs while having fun. 

“This is absolutely key as it keeps them engaged and active in their lung health programme – it’s easy to take part and it’s rewarding.

“We know how important lung health is to our overall wellbeing, and particularly now, where we’re seeing new patients who may be suffering from breathing issues related to Long Covid, so any treatment which can help address that and offers patients a treatment plan they can stick to, is a positive step.”

Those interested in signing up can contact katie.poulter@scottishopera.org.uk.