Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful - 1 Corinthians 4:2
We all have a level of management responsibility, and one of the first individuals we need to manage is ourselves. It is essential to reflect on this concept. Consider the following: When did you last take time for self-care? When did you last engage in activities to stimulate personal growth beyond your usual routines? When was your last appointment with an ENT specialist for a check-up on your voice and throat?
I must confess that I neglected some of these aspects, to the extent that my ENT specialist informed me of concerning issues affecting my singing voice of which I was unaware. It is crucial to prioritize maintenance and prevention over treatment. Prevention is always better than a cure
In our final in this 3 part series here are some important strategies to ensure long-term vocal health:
- Rest Your Voice: I CANNOT EMPHASIZE THIS ENOUGH! Just like any other muscle, your voice needs rest especially after a long event. Avoid excessive talking, whispering, or yelling, especially when your voice feels fatigued.
- Avoid Coughing or Clearing Your Throat: Instead of coughing or clearing your throat, try sipping water or taking a small breath. These actions can strain your vocal cords.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Foods high in antioxidants (like berries and leafy greens) support overall health, including your voice.
- Limit Dairy and Sugar Before Singing: Some find that dairy products may create phlegm, while excess sugar can lead to inflammation. Monitor your diet and adjust accordingly, especially before performances.
-Vocal Teas : My favorite is throat coat that can be found in Jamaica in Proactive Health stores or supermarkets. I have also been recommending it for preachers/speakers as well and they testify it works
- Seek Professional Guidance: If you’re serious about singing, consider working with a vocal coach ENT specialist or speech therapist who specializes in vocal techniques. They can help you develop healthy singing habits tailored to your voice.
OTHER GREAT BUT SIMPLE HOME REMEDIES FOR YOUR VOICE
Allergies: Mix 1 oz apple cider vinegar with 8 oz water and sip throughout the day. Good for helping sinus headache, stuffy nose, and watery eyes.
Cold and cough: Eat 1 to 2 cloves raw garlic daily at the first onset of symptoms. Cut in chunks and swallow whole like pills. Or crush the cloves and mix with two teaspoons of honey or stir into a glass of vegetable juice. See also “Tomato Juice Tonic”.
Cold: Mix hot tea with 1 to 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
Cold, congestion, cough – intense remedy: Mix 4 oz (8 Tbsp) ground horseradish with 3 Tbsp lemon juice. Take 1/2 tsp twice a day between meals. This will dissolve mucus from your sinus cavities.
Cold, congestion, cough remedy drink: Mix 3 Tbsp lemon juice, hot water, 1 Tbsp honey, and as much cayenne pepper as you can stand. Drink as needed to clear up head and chest.
Congestion: Eat spicy foods IF YOU CAN TOLERATE IT: curry, chili peppers, garlic, onions, and horseradish. Swallow raw ginger. You can also mix 1/2 tsp hot sauce in a glass of water and drink the mixture.
Flu/Sore throat remedy: Mix 1/4 c honey and 1/4 apple cider vinegar. Take 1 Tbsp every 4 hours or as needed.
Sore throat/laryngitis: Take a glass of warm water, and add 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar and a small amount of honey, which will smooth out the taste of the vinegar. For sore throat, gargle as needed. For laryngitis (loss of voice), drink mixture about three times a day.
Sore throat remedy: Mix 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup water, 1 tsp cayenne, and 4 Tbsp honey. Take 3 T every 4 hours to speed healing.
Sore throat: Eat 1 – 2 Tbsp plain honey, or mix honey with fruit juice, herbal teas, or pure water.
Sore throat gargle: Gargle every hour or so with 1 tsp salt mixed in 1 pint (16 oz) warm water. Or use a little lemon juice squeezed into a large glass of lukewarm water.
The importance of vocal health for singers cannot be overstated. By incorporating warm-up exercises, prioritizing hydration, and following good vocal care practices, you can ensure your voice remains strong and resilient. Remember, investing time and effort into caring for your voice will pay off in your performances and overall vocal enjoyment.
Now, get ready to sing your heart out, knowing you're taking excellent care of your instrument as unto the Lord!
Comments