SING SONG MERRILY WE’RE HIGH

CAROL singers enjoy a cannabislike high, scientists have discovered.

The annual tradition of warbling Jingle Bells not only brings festive cheer but is also surprisingly good for your health.

Researchers found the levels of natural brain compound anandamide (AEA) soared in women who belonged to a choir.

Experts found blood levels of AEA went up by more than 40% among singers.

The scientists even reckon bursting into song could help those with depression and offer an alternative to drugs.

Dubbed the “bliss molecule”, AEA bears a similar structure to tetrahydrocannabinol, a compound found in cannabis.

The researchers at Nottingham University studied the effects on volunteers before and after 30 minutes of dancing, singing or reading books.

But they found singing was the only activity out of the three to increase levels and improve mood, suggesting it helps produce a natural high.

Joseph Fort, director of the Chapel Choir, King’s College London, said he was unsurprised by the results.

He said: “Choral singers have long sensed something along these lines – that they come out of a rehearsal feeling energised, happy, buoyant.”

He added: “In an era when we have to justify music’s presence in the educational curriculum, this research enables us to show that the benefits of singing extend far beyond the act of singing itself.”