Tackling Cold and Flu Season: Singer's Survival Guide
Hello there, fellow music enthusiasts! It's that time of year again when cold and flu bugs are out to play, and our vocal cords are under siege. As I cozy up under my blanket, trying to get some needed vocal rest, I figured I'd share some of my favorite secret weapons to help singers bounce back faster from illness.
Rest is Your Superpower
Vocal Rest: Your vocal cords are precious, and they deserve a break when you're feeling under the weather. So, zip it, lock it, and give your vocal cords a day off.
Physical Rest: Beyond your voice, your body needs some TLC. Lie down, binge-watch your favorite shows, and let your immune system do its thing.
Sleep: Ah, the sweet nectar of life. Don't underestimate the power of good sleep. It's when your body regenerates and heals itself.
Hydration: Your Vocal Cord's BFF
Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day. But when you're sick, double up! Your vocal cords can't perform their magic without proper hydration. Plus, many illnesses tend to dry them out faster, thanks to coughing, post-nasal drip, and those trusty antihistamines.
Remember, hydration is always vital. It takes around 24 hours for your vocal cords to soak up all that liquid goodness, so make sure to hydrate well before any big gig or practice session.
Get Steamy!
Steam is a singer's best friend. It helps break up mucus, expediting its departure from your lungs. It also moisturizes your vocal muscles. You can use a steam nebulizer, keep a handy humidifier by your bed, or simply enjoy a steamy shower.
Don't have a nebulizer or humidifier? No worries! Fill a pot with boiling water and create a cozy steam tent by draping a towel over your head while you inhale the goodness for 10-15 minutes. Just make sure to keep the towel away from heat sources and exercise caution using this method!
Clear the Airways with Nasal Irrigation
This one might feel a bit awkward, but it's a game-changer when you're dealing with a stuffy nose. Use a neti pot or an irrigation system to flush out excess mucus working up slowly to 2-3 times a day. You'll breathe easier and feel the benefits.
Sip Some Throat Coat Tea
For a soothing, sore-throat remedy, nothing beats a cup of hot tea with honey. While any hot tea will help, Throat Coat tea is my personal favorite. It works wonders and has a pleasant, sweet taste.
Silence Those Coughs with Cough Drops
Coughing can be your vocal cords' worst enemy when you're sick. Grab your favorite cough drops and keep that irritation in check. I love ones that have honey or menthol. These lollipops are also great for kids from ages 3-100!
SOVT Straw Exercises
When you are actually able to phonate (make a sound), try slowly adding in SOVT (Semi-Occluded Vocal Tract) exercises. These should be simple and of limited range at first. Try small slides ascending and descending a few minutes each morning, afternoon, and evening. For a vocal massage, go ahead and stick the straw in some water, hum, and let the bubbles work for you!
If you want some more specific SOVT exercises- check out my post here:
Singer's Saving Grace Spray
Sometimes, showtime waits for no one, and your throat might not be in tip-top shape. Singer's Saving Grace Spray to the rescue! It's a last-resort tool, but it can work wonders when you need it most. The taste might not be top-notch, but the ability to sing afterward makes it tolerable. Remember, though, it's a temporary solution and should be used sparingly.
CAUTION
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CAUTION !!
A Word on Anti-Inflammatories
Taking anti-inflammatories like Ibuprofen, Aspirin, or Naproxen sodium might ease your pain temporarily, but it doesn't mean your vocal cords are ready for action. These meds reduce inflammation throughout your body, including your vocal muscles. Once the meds wear off, the swelling comes back stronger. So, when in doubt, embrace vocal rest - even from talking - until your throat has been pain-free for a full 24 hours without these medications.
Stay healthy, my singing friends! Let's kick this cold and flu season to the curb and get back to hitting those high notes in no time.
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