EFA Member COPD Support Ireland hosted the Sing Strong project in 2021, a community singing intervention for people with lung conditions, including those living with COPD, to optimise their breathing. This initiative has reached hundreds of patients across the country and created an online community during the ongoing pandemic.
In partnership with Dr Roisin Cahalan, a lecturer in respiratory and cardiovascular physiotherapy at the University of Limerick, and vocal coach Ciara Meade, COPD Support Ireland hosted the Sing Strong project in 2021.
Sing Strong is a choral choir project designed as a community singing intervention for people with lung conditions, including those living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The weekly classes, held both online and in-person, include mindfulness, physical and vocal warm-up and exercise, and singing. While having fun and interacting with others, participants learnt how to use their respiration muscles to optimise their breathing, with regular practice helping to improve their overall condition.
COPD Support Ireland was integral in assisting COPD patients with the online transition necessitated by COVID-19. As a result, the classes have reached hundreds of patients across the whole country and have helped improve the mental and physical wellbeing of those involved.
See what the participants have to say in their latest video.