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BriVocals
LIFESTYLE
Singing is a whole body experience, therefore your body must be in good shape. Correct vocal technique requires the use and control of muscles throughout the body, and vocal resonance is enhanced by the presence of healthy body tissue in the resonating cavities.
Unfortunately the lifestyle followed by many musicians is the opposite of that necessary to preserve good health. If you think in terms of the care a musician takes of his favourite instrument, you would never abuse your body in such a careless way. This therefore means restricting the use of harmful stimulants such as nicotine, alcohol, caffeine and other drugs, taking regular exercise and pursuing a healthy diet. It also means getting plenty of sleep, minimising stress in your life and maintaining a positive outlook. I appreciate singer/songwriters will be torn between the opposing needs for their craft but I am aiming only at singers here.
Stimulants
Because stimulants act to restrict the flow of oxygen in the blood to the lungs and muscles, they should be avoided. It is suggested that smoking reduces lung capacity by up to a half, and the furring-up of nasal passages and cavities is a constant nightmare for a singer. Alcohol also affects the production of mucus and dehydrates the vocal tract, leading to problems from lack of lubrication. Overall energy levels are influenced by long-term use of all drugs whether prescribed or otherwise, and energy is vital for success as a singer. If you are serious about your singing, avoid all unnatural substances.
Exercise
The best exercise is regular walking, whilst carrying out specially devised breathing exercises. If you are unfit, you will need to start at a comfortable level and build up gradually according to your own body's capabilities. Regular movement and deep breathing is good for the circulation, providing your muscles with oxygen and helping the body's natural mechanisms to clear itself of debris. Exercise in fresh air, away from polluted atmospheres and wear natural fibres to help your skin eliminate toxins while sweating.
Diet
A wholefood diet is recommended, not necessarily vegetarian but organic where possible. Artificial additives, chemicals and processed foods and drinks should be avoided, particularly those additives which are known to be harmful to asthmatics.
If you are able to avoid conventional drugs for medical treatment, do so; there are plenty of alternative natural treatments available which have a beneficial effect on your whole body. The use of antibiotics is believed to be very debilitating and, if unavoidable, should be countered by the use of natural products designed to restore the beneficial bacteria destroyed by these powerful drugs. Use techniques such as meditation and natural healing to help your body maintain its health and use vitamin supplements only where you think you have a deficiency.
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