Table of contents:
- How to maintain the health of the vocal cords?
- 1. Train to sound like an athlete
- 2. Use your voice as wisely as possible
- 3. Sing in your own style
- 4. Drink lots of water
- 5. Have a healthy lifestyle
For those of you who have a hobby of singing, or maybe are pursuing a career in the music industry as a singer, you certainly understand very well that voice is a valuable asset and has an important role in life. In order to stay fit and stable, the vocal cords must be kept in good health. Stay tuned for the following article to find out how to keep your vocal cords healthy.
How to maintain the health of the vocal cords?
Not only singers, many people depend on the quality of their vocal cords at work, such as teachers, doctors, lawyers, and public speaker. However, not many people know how to properly maintain the health and performance of the vocal cords. Here are tips you can try to prevent damage to the vocal cords:
1. Train to sound like an athlete
According to Dr. Wendy LeBorgne, a voice pathologist and vocal specialist, is very important for singers to train the vocal cords like an athlete trains his body.
Like sports athletes, singers also need to perfect their skills. The exercises that are carried out must also follow a schedule that is made, accompanied by rest so that the performance of the vocal cords is not too forced.
The exercise can be in the form of warming up the voice, stretching neck and shoulders, breathing exercises, and following a healthy diet. This way, you have a low risk of injuring your vocal cords, and are always ready to perform at your best thanks to adequate preparation.
2. Use your voice as wisely as possible
Another way to keep your vocal cords healthy is to use your voice as needed. Try not to talk or sing too much when you get tired or your voice starts to sound hoarse.
Also, avoid speaking at too loud a volume, shouting, or singing in a forced manner. This causes your vocal cords to swell and potentially a vocal cord nodule.
3. Sing in your own style
Trying to follow or imitate other people's singing methods, for example your idol singer, actually forces your vocal cords to do things that are outside the limits of their comfort zone. The reason is, each vocal cord has a different vocal level and physiology.
In addition to accentuating your true identity, singing in your own style is also great for keeping your vocal cords healthy.
4. Drink lots of water
It's no secret that getting enough water every day has a good impact on maintaining the health of the vocal cords. It is recommended that you drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. Limit drinking alcohol or caffeine, because they can cause a lot of water loss and dry throat. Alcohol can also irritate the mucous membranes that line the throat.
By drinking lots of water, your throat will stay hydrated. A dry throat runs the risk of causing damage to the vocal cords.
5. Have a healthy lifestyle
The health of your vocal cords will always be maintained if you are consistent in living a healthy lifestyle. Adjust your diet with a diet rich in beneficial nutrients.
You can choose fibrous foods, made from whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. These foods contain vitamins A, E, and C which are good for the mucous membranes of the throat, so that your vocal cords remain protected.
Also, avoid bad habits that have the potential to damage your vocal cords, such as smoking and alcoholic beverages. You should also reduce the use of mouthwash to avoid chemical substances in it.
