If you are a singer, then you should know how to take good care of your singing voice. It is your instrument, one that should be guarded carefully. Your career, after all, depends on the health of your voice. Thankfully, ensuring vocal health is relatively straightforward. All you need is a bit of knowledge and a dash of common sense to keep your voice in top condition.
Even if you are looking for Schaumburg voice lessons, you still need to learn how to take better care of your voice. Just as a top violinist would prioritize their Stradivarius over themselves, your priority should be keeping your vocal cords healthy.
You should avoid things that can damage your voice, such as smoking, vocal abuse, and overuse. Some things cannot be avoided, however, such as allergies. If your vocal cords are irritated, all you have to do is to take a vocal rest and follow your health professional’s advice.
1. Don’t forget to warm up and cool down
Your vocal cords, like any other muscle in your body, should be warmed up before use and cooled down after. Vocal exercises prepare your vocal cords for prolonged activity and reduce the chances of irritation. Depending on your age, range, and experience, there are many types of exercises you can do.
Start your exercises by relaxing your facial muscles. Massaging your face and loosening the jaw muscles and lips are all tried and tested methods. Sighing, humming, and trills are exercises that prime your voice. Vocal exercises should take at least 10 to 15 minutes and do not start until you feel like your face has relaxed.
After using your voice, you should take the time to cool down. Many singers often forget to do this, but it is a simple way to keep your vocal cords healthy and supported. A few lip rolls, yawning and sighing all help in releasing tension.
2. Stay hydrated
Singers often swear on different drinks that help them to sing better. But the best drink for your voice is water. Always carry water with you, especially during rehearsal, lessons, and performances. Drinking often keeps your vocal cords hydrated and lubricated. And do not just take a few small gulps, drink a glass or two during breaks.
3. Rest often
Just as people need regular vacations to reinvigorate the mind and body, frequent vocal naps help keep your voice healthy and rested. Overusing your voice will lead to vocal stress and even damage. Take time to relax between rehearsals or performances, or if your allergies flare up.
Vocal rest is not just not singing. You have to stop using your voice period: no singing, no talking, and no whispering. Allow your voice some time to recuperate and release tension.
4. Increase humidity
Drinking helps keep your vocal cords lubricated, but there is also a way to improve your breathing. Support your voice by breathing in humidified air. Singing in a dry environment can damage your voice and breathing.
Consider buying a humidifier for your home and rehearsal spaces. Turn on the humidifier at least half an hour before using your voice to allow the air to humidify.
Once your voice is damaged, it is extremely to get it back to its original condition. Keep your voice healthy and powerful. Always listen to your body and stop performing if it hurts. Unlike other musicians, you cannot replace your instrument once you have lost it.
