The last few weeks in Atlanta, we’ve seen some pretty drastic temp drops. Low of 31! Brrrr. I know…all our northern VO friends are yelling “wimps” right now! That can wreak havoc on your voice, so Nathaniel Sundholm is here to share 5 Ways to Take Care of your Voice through Winter.
Nathaniel is part of the Emory Voice Center here in Atlanta. Nathaniel, originally from Brooklyn New York, has a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with voice specialization from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. Basically, he knows what he’s talking about.
We talked to him ages ago about vocal health on our podcast. If you missed that episode, you can check it out on Apple HERE or find it on other platforms HERE.
5 Ways to Take Care of your Voice through Winter
from Nathaniel Sundholm of Emory Voice Center
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1. Hydrate: Systemic hydration is important all year round. We often need a few more reminders when it’s cold out to drink beverages that hydrate and don’t just warm. Hot apple cider is a beverage that does both! 2. Humidify: Winter months typically have a lower ambient humidity AND most forced-air heating systems further dry out our environment. It is important to use a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom every night AND in your working spaces throughout the day. 3. Steam: Steam is a natural way to open up your air passages. It can help relieve congestion throughout your airway without drying it out too much. This is a great daily practice for getting ready to work as well as a useful recovery tool after a long day of recording. 4. Take time to warm up: The muscles that support your voice can get stiff and sore when bracing against the cold. Taking time to warm up your voice, breathing, and body is an essential component of having a flexible, dynamic sound. Try humming, lip trills, big yawns, big sighs, and even some light stretches of your whole body. 5. Beware of decongestants and menthol: Many over-the-counter medications and cough remedies can dry you out! Prolonged use of mentholated products can also irritate your throat, having the opposite effect of what is desired. More supportive alternatives typically have pectin or xylitol. We typically recommend Luden’s. FYI: Hoarseness is never normal! If you’re experiencing voice changes for 2 weeks or more, reach out to a voice-specialized Ear, Nose, and Throat physician to address your trouble. Early detection and treatment of voice disorders are essential for professional voice users. |
This was also part of an article Voice123 published about vocal health. Not only does Nathaniel share his winter weather tips, but I share:
* How to get your voice back after losing it!
* How to stop your voice from cracking
* Articulation Exercises
Read the rest of the article HERE