As we begin a new school year, I'd like to remind everyone to stay musically healthy! God gave us an incredible gift when he gave us the "voice". It is a built-in instrument that is one of the most flexible instruments ever! With our voices we can sing, whistle, make animal sounds, cry, cluck, whine like a fire truck siren, and make a multitude of sounds. We must preserve this gift by taking special care of it.
Here are a few tips:
1. Eat healthy foods. Since our voice is part of our body, we need to keep it strong and well. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is one way to do that!
2. Get plenty of rest. Ever notice how your voice sounds "scratchy" after you have spent the night with a friend? When you stay up late, and don't give your voice "rest time", it is overworked.
3. Yelling AND whispering can injure your voice. Most people know that yelling or screaming hurts your voice, but whispering is harmful, too. It's best to speak in a NORMAL voice, just do it more quietly. Here's one link that helps explain it: http://blogs.voices.com/voxdaily/2009/07/the_dangers_of_whispering_for_your_voice.html
4. Drink plenty of water. The vocal cords work best when moist and free of excess mucus. If your body is dehydrated, your voice will be, too. Avoid caffeinated drinks, as caffeine pulls moisture out of your body. Water is best!
5. Medicine can affect your voice. Many over-the-counter cold and flu medicines can dry out even the healthy mucus your voice needs to function properly. The National Center for Voice and Speech has a list of prescription medicines and how they may affect your voice--*Parents, check it out!
6. Stop talking or singing if you are hoarse or your voice is raspy. Limit talking when your voice is tired. Do not talk or sing through it. You can damage your voice if you continue to use it when it is strained.
7. Avoid being around smoke or other pollutants. Strong scents and cleaning products can cause irritation that often affect the voice.
These are just a few ways to help keep your voice healthy! For more information, go to the National Center for Voice and Speech at: http://www.ncvs.org/ Happy Singing!
