Laura B SS Chapter 13

Laura B
Chapter Summary: This chapter is all about how having a healthy lifestyle effects the vitality of our singing. Our voice is integral in all aspects in our life, so as we strive for a healthy voice, we will in turn become a more healthy and well balanced person as well. Hydration is critical in having a healthy voice. Singer's must create the consistent habit of consistently drinking a good amount of water to maintain hydration throughout the body. This will all the right amount of mucus to reside on the vocal folds which will in turn decrease the chance of getting nodules. Unhealthy vocal habits include speaking at a high frequency for extended periods of time, stressing the voice consistently in any way, and smoking. It is important for us to maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes eating healthy and exercising in the appropriate way and in an appropriate amount. If we are planning on going into a performing career, we need to make sure that we care about our physical appearance enough to take care of ourselves but should not become obsessed with looking good. When our bodies change drastically (losing a lot of weight or gaining a lot of weight), it effects singing through the way we breath and other forms of technique. When a singer undergoes such a change, they must retrain the technique in their bodies. We must constantly strive to take good care of our bodies, and if we think we may have nodules or polyps, we should seek treatment immediately. We also need to be aware of our bodies when we are sick. If we decide to perform while sick, we must be more aware of using solid technique. We should know ourselves enough to know when we should or should not sing. More on the mental health side, we need to be aware that the life of a singer is untraditional and will take us away from loved ones, as well as from a consistent income. We need to be prepared for this if we are to follow this career choice. Singers also need to find a mental balance that will help them be confident in their abilities, but also bless them with the humility to be aware of where improvement is needed. As singers follow these guidelines, they will find that not only there singing but there life becomes more balanced.
Key Concept: "As singing goes, so goes life."
Key Terms: physical health, hydration, nodules, prenodular swelling, polyp, resistance training, attractiveness, bariatric surgery, vocal pathologies, confidence and humility, "the jerk"
Making Connections: I liked this chapter because it reminded me of the importance of taking good care of my body. I often become so focused on school and study and work that my health at times takes the back seat. I need to continue with trying to create healthy habits such as drinking enough water and exercising more so that I will be more balanced all around.