My subject this month might surprise you, especially if your voice has always been robust and happy to perform in any circumstance. However, I would suggest that if you have some understanding of how easy it is to damage your voice, that might help you to protect it throughout your life.
So, let’s have some science….
The voice is made in the voice box by the vibration of two vocal cords against the breath. We then amplify it in the head before sending it forward from the hard palate in the mouth out into space. The ears of the listener(s) then catch the sound waves from the air.
The vocal cords are tiny and they can be affected by lots of things.
GOOD PRACTICE FOR THE VOICE
- Breathe deeply
- Drink lots of water
- Rest the voice (the vocal cords can self repair)
- Open your mouth to let out more sound
- Make your tongue tip strong to make speech precise
- Breathe in steam if your voice is poorly
- Be aware of changes in your voice and go to the doctor if they last for more than two weeks
BAD PRACTICE FOR THE VOICE
- Smoking
- Any caffeinated drinks
- Stress and tension
- Forcing sound from the throat
- Insufficient breath
- Lazy delivery
- Acid reflux (caused by eating late)
- Alcohol
This is not an exhaustive list but it covers most of the key areas.
I work extensively with individuals and businesses who used their voices all day i.e.
- Sports professionals
- Trainers and coaches
- Telesales
- Teachers
When your voice is your main means of earning a living you need to understand it. I have met many people who carried on regardless and ended up with nodules on their vocal cords, total loss of voice and surgery – not pleasant – so don’t abuse your voice. Remember, it is your chief ambassador to the world and you owe it some respect.
I hope you have all had a good month. Mine has been quite exciting and I’ll tell you about it in December from a distance as I’ll be in Hong Kong from 16th November till just before Christmas. In the meantime…..
