Experiential educators are encouraged to include singing in their curriculum. Singing offers a dynamic form of creative engagement and can assist learners in taking risks in their learning and in active experimentation. As a holistic learning tool, singing engages the six capabilities that humans have for learning: physical, emotional, cognitive, intuitional/metaphoric, spiritual, and relational capabilities. Singing is a connecting force interpersonally; intrapersonally, it supports lateral thinking, connecting right- and left-brain functions. Singing can relax the body and provide a vehicle for safe emotional release. It generates physical energy and aerates the body through deep and sustained breathing. All the physical senses are stimulated by singing, which in turn produces heightened states of sensitivity and arousal. As part of a holistic healing practice within adventure therapy programs, singing can be used explicitly to heal physical and other ailments. Singing is particularly advantageous when working with women who have experienced being silenced through abuse, as it provides the space and a tool with which to be heard in a profound and whole way. When a group sings en masse, all members contribute to a synergistic spiraling of collective energy, insight, and creativity that can lead to holistic "peak experiences" and a sense of finding an inner "home." Singing and music should not be peripheral or an add-on to the outdoor curriculum, but a core component to curriculum design and integrated into educational events. Contains 16 references and 5 additional resources. (TD)"

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Turn off the Radio and Sing For Your Lives!