- Why do I keep losing my voice?
- There are a number of reasons for why singers lose their voices, from viruses to allergies to muscle tension. Singing should not feel like a physical effort anywhere, except in your diaphragm. You should feel no tension in your neck, or the muscles in your throat (larynx.) Sound production is easy!
- What should I do to keep my voice healthy?
- Drink water! You need between 8-10 cups/day to keep your system hydrated. If you have sinus drainage, try steaming to release the mucous from your nasal cavities. If you have chronic sinus drainage, consult an allergist or otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose, Throat doctor).
- What should I do when I am sick or losing my voice?
- Vocal Rest. Inflammation of your vocal chords will make them extra sensitive to damage while speaking or singing. Grab a pen and paper or study up on your ASL (American Sign Language). Drink tea with honey and inhale the warm, moisture from the tea. If you must speak, allow your voice to be “musical”. Avoid monotone speaking, and add some inflection which uses the full range of your vocal abilities. If you speak only in the low tones your tired voice wants to use, your vocal chords will feel even more fatigue.
Must-Knows for Speakers
- Where is my sound energy coming from?
- My vocal chords? Oh ho ho no. Your diaphragm! When you inhale, feel your lower ribs and your abdomen expand like a balloon filling with air. Speech production requires tidal breathing. It's just in and out. Easy. Tension is not needed.
- Where is my energy going?
- Up! Straight back out from whence it came. The air from your exhalation will aid in the vibration of your vocal chords. Think of wind howling through an open cave.
- Why isn't this working?
- Think, first, of what might be holding you back. Are you locking your breath? Are you scared of making too much noise? Public speaking is a vulnerable task, but as I tell my voice students, "make HUGE mistakes!" You can always correct your mistakes, but speak like you aren't going to make ANY! Your body will thank you for it. You deserve to be heard!
Your skull is a resonant box. Send your sound through your mouth with ease by letting it soar on your exhalation.
