We use our voices throughout the day in many different ways. Some things we do can be unhealthy for our voice (straining while talking, singing, making noise(s), etc).
Here are some things we can do to help keep our voices healthy.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Follow your doctor’s directions about reflux management.
- Go to a person instead of yelling across the house or yard.
- Use a noise maker instead of yelling at sporting events.
- Use your lips to make car and boat noises instead of using a tense “vroom-vroom” or growling.
- Take a nice hard swallow when you feel the need to clear your throat.
- Limit time spent in smoky areas.
- Take rests after using your voice a lot.
- Clap or wave to get someone’s attention.
- Figure out times when you yell, shout and strain. Brainstorm what you can do instead that is healthy for your voice.
- Make sure everyone gets their turn and waits for their turn to talk so no one has to yell or strain to be heard.
- Pick one or two suggestions to focus on at a time. Trying to do everything at once can be overwhelming.