Page 37 - The Singing Contest 2019 Magazine

Tips For Caring For Your Voice

• Get enough rest each night. When you’re tired or • The following items
stressed, the first thing to go is your voice. which have the tendency
to “dry out” your throat:
• Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke. - caffeine - coffee, tea,
colas, etc.
• Wash your hands often to prevent catching colds or - chocolate
the flu. - alcohol
- antihistamines
• Use a humidifier in your home particularly during the - decongestants
winter months. - diuretics
- vitamin C, especially in
• Always face the person you are talking to and move large doses
close enough to them so that that you won’t be tempt-
ed to raise your voice. • Singing beyond what is a comfortable range or vol-
ume for you
Be careful of:
• Clearing your throat vigorously When your voice is failing:
• Yelling, cheering, screaming • Rest your voice along with
• Talking over the noise at parties, clubs, etc. the rest of your body
• Grunting during strenuous exercise • Do not whisper. Speak in a soft voice and only when
• Doing “sound effects” - funny voices, engine noises, you have to.
very high or low pitched sounds, etc. • Keep your throat moisturized with frequent sips of
• Over-using your voice when you have a cold or are water and/or mild lozenges
tired • Gargle with warm salt water for a sore throat
• Spicy foods. They can lead to gastric reflux and the • Consult your doctor if you experience throat discom-
stomach acids in your throat can lead to hoarseness fort or hoarseness for more than fourteen days.

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