Since we have a holiday on our hands this weekend (hooray 4th of July!), we thought it’d be a good idea to remind you how to protect those vocal chords – so you can focus on watching fireworks instead of worrying about hurting your voice!
Here are some tips to maintain your vocal health:
1. Hydrate
We know we sound like a broken record. However, remember to hydrate! If you are not properly hydrated, your vocal folds can become irritated easily which will lead to swelling. For singers, it’s recommended that you drink room temperature water as ice cold water can make your muscles contract which leads to your vocal chords tensing up.
2. No screaming or yelling
This one is fairly obvious, however, we often forget to take care of our voice when we are in a loud environment surrounded by friends having fun. Be sure to talk at a normal volume and be conscious when you feel you are straining your voice.
If you were submitting to Webster University on Acceptd for Vocal Performance, you’d need to include a video of vocalizing from the bottom to the top of your useable range – can’t do that if your voice is strained!
3. Don’t eat too late
Stop! Put that hamburger down. Eating late (even if it’s a holiday, sorry guys!) can cause acid reflux. Acid reflux can burn your vocal chords and leave them dry. Try to leave 3 hours in between your last meal and bedtime.
4. Positivity and fun
Seriously, remember to have fun! Stress makes us sick and that is never good for a healthy voice. Enjoy time with loved ones and remember to take time off from performing/practicing. After all, you want to be in your best mood to film your Jazz standard for Rowan University’s Vocal Jazz Major!
5. Sleep
Everyone needs a solid night’s sleep, but it’s especially essential for singers. Singing with a tired voice tends to lead to vocal strain. Not to mention: getting enough sleep helps you maintain stress levels, boost creativity and improve your memory. No brainer, right?
Have a happy, healthy and safe 4th from everyone at Acceptd!
