Your voice is the core of your being. Just like you take care of yourself physically, equal attention must be given to your voice care.
Here are top 8 ways to take care of your voice.
1. No smoking!
Some of my clients, especially females, think they have a very sexy voice because of smoking. It’s a sick thought and can’t be wrong enough. Smoking gives you a voice that may sound deep due to the swelling of your vocal folds. It not only dehydrates your vocal folds, but burns the cilia off of your lungs, inhibiting them from absorbing oxygen. In the long run, it not only does no good to your health, but brings permanent damage to your vocal folds and makes your voice worsened when you age.
2. Stay hydrated.
Water lubricates your vocal folds. Eight glasses per day should be a minimum. Not only is the air dryer nowadays, but many people are drinking more coffee and tea. Both are diuretics and remove moisture from your body which must be replaced. Keep a bottle of water handy.
3. Don’t yell or scream.
When you yell or scream, your vocal folds are taking all the pressure and will wear and tear eventually. Instead, learn to project your voice with the support of proper breathing. Use a microphone if necessary.
4. Don’t cough or clear your throat.
Coughing or clearing your throat puts extra strain on the vocal mechanism. Try swallowing first. If that doesn’t work, drink some water. As a last resort, clear or cough GENTLY.
5. Limit consumption of dairy and gluten products.
Dairy and gluten products cause mucus and coat your throat. Your voice won’t be as clear sounding and you’ll want to do what is said not to do – clear your throat.
6. No whispering.
If you are losing your voice, don’t speak. Unless you must, speak quietly, but don’t whisper. Whispering is as bad as shouting and puts too much strain on your vocal folds.
7. Warm up your voice.
Just like you do warm-ups before exercises, wake up your speaking voice every morning. It could include some breathing, relaxation and articulation drills (tongue twisters). Start slowly and gently and don’t ever strain.
8. Get good voice training.
Learn how to project your voice correctly and how to use good breath support to avoid any strain on your vocal folds. Voice training will strengthen your voice and allow you to sound loud and clear without vocal fatigue even after long hours of usage.
