Vocal cords, also called vocal folds, are two triangular bands of tissue that sit at the top of your windpipe. They’re open while you’re breathing, and when you speak or sing, they close, pulling tighter for higher notes, remaining loose for lower notes. You want your vocal cords soft, smooth, flexible, and free of inflammation.
● Warm-up and cool down
It is vital that you warm up your voice before singing, and there are a variety of exercises to suit all ages, vocal ranges, and levels of experience. Always ease into your exercises by first warming up your facial muscles—loosen your lips and jaw muscles by blowing through your lips, sticking out your tongue as far as it will go, massaging your face, and sighing musically.
● Hydrate your voice
If you’re wondering what to drink to sing better, the answer is simple: water. Water is one of the best drinks for your singing voice, with herbal teas (but not too hot) in second place. Drink water throughout the day, and keep a water bottle nearby during lessons and rehearsals. And don’t think that a swig or two of water, while you’re warming up, is enough. Your vocal folds work best when they’re well lubricated, and that means keeping your entire body hydrated.
● Humidify your home
A better question than what to drink to sing better is what to breathe to sing better. Although nothing you drink can directly moisturize your vocal cords, you can give your voice a boost by breathing properly humidified air. Overly dry air is very taxing on your breathing and your voice.
● Take vocal naps
If you work out, you know how important rest days are. A tired voice, just like a tired body, is more prone to injury. If you’re sick, if your allergies are flaring up or even if you’ve just been working your voice a lot (like in rehearsal or when you’re preparing for an audition), take time to rest your voice.
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