Tips for Healthy Voices!
Germs and allergies are everywhere these days causing illnesses, harsh
coughs and stubborn phlegm…
A singer’s worst enemies!
Here are a few helpful tips for maintaining great vocal health!
1.
HYDRATE
Water, Water,
Water! Room temperature to warm is
the best! Ice water may feel good
on the throat but has a tendency to tighten the vocal cords and takes longer
to absorb. Water moistens the
tissues and muscles and reduces the risk of vocal damage. Dry vocal cords are prone to irritation
when vibrating and can cause pain and discomfort. Sip water constantly throughout the day, not just when you get
thirsty. I love adding lemon and
honey which leads me to #2!
2.
MANUKA HONEY
This raw honey comes
from New Zealand and Australia and has microbial properties. So, when you have a sore throat, take
one teaspoon and let it drizzle down your throat. This will help keep bacteria away and will help heal your
throat faster. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory
that prevents any infection from spreading. You can eat alone or put one teaspoon with warm water (and
lemon, yum!) You can find it at Trader Joes or online at www.amazon.com
3.
STEAM
We all love to sing
in the shower! Wanna know
why? The steam helps open up our
throat and keeps our sinus membranes moist. Vicks sells a personal steamer (also available at www.amazon.com)
and does wonders when you are experiencing a hoarse,
dry throat. Steam several times
day for at least 10 minutes each time.
4.
THROAT SPRAYS &
HERBAL TEAS
There are a few
throat sprays I recommend that are NOT antiseptic sprays and contain no
alcohol. Alcohol sprays have a
tendency to dry out the throat as well as “numbing” it that can lead to over
singing and damage. Both are
available for about $10 at www.amazon.com
1.
Entertainer’s Secret
Spray
2.
Singers Saving Grace
I am a HUGE fan of “Organic Throat
Coat Tea!” I’m not going to lie… I
have a tough time getting this one down but it does miracles for soothing the
voice. You can mask the “dirt” taste with Manuka honey and lemon! ;-) You can find this at Target, Whole
Foods and Giant Eagle in the “Tea” section.
5.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
Get plenty of rest! Keep your neck and chest warm. It’s going to get cold out there real
fast! Always have a scarf or
sweatshirt with you. Think like an
athlete: the scarf and sweatshirt
is to a singer as leg warmers and sweatpants are to dancers. Protect that precious instrument!
