Give Your Voice a Drink

As a vocal coach and teacher, I can't stress enough the importance of proper hydration for singers. When you're performing or rehearsing, it's easy to get caught up in the moment and forget to drink enough water. However, proper hydration is crucial for maintaining the health and strength of your vocal folds.

Your vocal folds are made up of two thin folds of mucous membrane and muscle that stretch across your larynx, or voice box. When you speak or sing, the folds of tissue come together. Your breath causes them to vibrate, producing sound. If your vocal folds are dehydrated, they can become inflamed and swollen, which can lead to hoarseness and difficulty singing.

So, how much water should you be drinking? The general rule of thumb is to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day, or about 64 ounces. However, if you're singing or speaking for long periods of time, you may need to drink even more to keep your vocal folds hydrated.

In addition to water, there are a few other things you can do to help keep your vocal folds hydrated. One is to avoid dehydrating substances like alcohol and caffeine, which can dry out your vocal folds. You can also try using a humidifier in your home or apartment to add moisture to the air, which can help keep your vocal folds from drying out.

Finally, it's important to remember that proper hydration isn't just about drinking enough water. You should also be getting enough electrolytes, which help your body absorb and retain water. Good sources of electrolytes include coconut water, sports drinks, and fruits like bananas and oranges.

Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining the health and strength of your vocal folds. Make sure to drink enough water and get enough electrolytes, and avoid dehydrating substances like alcohol and caffeine. By taking care of your vocal folds, you'll be able to sing and perform at your best for years to come.