Tips To Keep Your Voice In Shape

 

Your voice is your instrument. It's what you use to make a living. To stay healthy, your vocal cords must be stretched out and played on a regular basis. You can do this by practicing voice exercises every day that stretch your range as often as possible. The sound of your voice is an expression of who you are. It can be rough, smooth, high-pitched, low-pitched, or anything in between. The way you deliver words and phrases also reflects your personality.

If you've ever had to record something while sick with the flu or strep throat, then maybe you know how challenging it can be to project your voice when feeling congested. Many voice actor beginners don't realize their voice needs care just like any other body part does. When something happens to your voice, it affects how you sound and your ability to communicate with others. Here are some ways to keep your voice in shape.

1. Drink lots of water to hydrate your vocal cords

It is essential to drink plenty of water so that your vocal cords stay hydrated. Consuming too many caffeinated drinks can dry out your vocal cords, which can lead to respiratory infections, sore throats, and voice loss.

2. Take a break from speaking every hour or so

We've found that one of the best ways to keep my voice in shape is to stop speaking every hour or so. The main idea is to give your vocal cords a rest. This prevents them from getting too tired, leading to vocal fatigue, pain, and even permanent damage. It's also a good idea to regularly meet with a voice coach for voice lessons/training sessions, and this can help significantly with your voice acting skills.

3. Avoid shouting too much

Shouting is a habit that many people have when they are angry or frustrated or during spectator sports. However, this could also affect your vocal cords because it forces the air out of your lungs at a higher volume which can cause problems. If you need to assert yourself, do so in a calm manner.

4. Get enough sleep to keep your voice in shape

Next, it is important to mention that getting enough sleep is key when it comes to keeping your voice in shape. Getting sufficient sleep helps the vocal cords rest and heals any damage during the day. Your voice sounds more rested, easier to understand, and more pleasant when you are well-rested. Studies show that the average person needs at least 8 hours of sleep for optimum vocal cord functioning.

5. Use a humidifier when the air is dry

When the air is dry, it can lead to throat irritation and sore throat. This is because of all the particles in the dry air that might aggravate your throat. A humidifier will help to increase the moisture in the air.

Stay away from antihistamines and similar products that will dry out nasal passages, mouth and throat.  

Conclusion

If you want to keep your voice in shape and protect your vocal cords, there are a few things that may help. Drink plenty of water, take breaks from speaking every hour or so, avoid shouting too much, get enough sleep for proper hydration and rest, use a humidifier when the air is dry as well as stay away from cigarettes and alcohol. Practice vocal exercises regularly to improve breath control so it will be easier on your throat muscles. During workouts, use good inhale/exhale technique to build up ling capacity.

The more we know about our voice, the better.