My Freakin Throat!

             I was recently thinking about a recent blog dealing with the care of one ear.  This week I thought I would guide my attention over to the care of our throats.  What are some good guidelines to proper throat care for voice acting, singing or public speaking?

• Remember that air conditioning and heaters can actively affect the muscles of your throat.   Conditioned heat or cool air over long periods of time can simulate a dehydrating affect.
• Coughing, whispering, or clearing a throat in ridiculous amounts can create excessive damage to the vocal cords
• When recording material steer away from overly frozen or cold beverages, the numbing qualities of cold can over relax the muscles, which could lead to strain or over use of the throat.
• Concentrate on monitoring your own range.  Don’t scream, yell, or over use the vocal chords.
• “Don't speak beyond a natural breath cycle.
• Don't smoke, smoking is the worst thing you can do to your voice.
• Don't demand more from your voice than you do the rest of your body.
• Reduce background noise in daily environments.”
• Generally follow your best intuition.  You understand if you make a mistake, or harm your range.  Follow up on possible damage, consult medical advice, and be mindful of your health and vocal capabilities.
• Avoid public speaking without a microphone.  Understand your limits and try not to over react to situations in which you could easily strain your vocal chords.

These are some simple steps to keep you precious vocal instrument running efficiently.   

"Activity Stream." - Voice Acting Alliance Forums. Web. 13 Sept. 2014.