Taking care of your vocal health should be a top priority. Here are five habits to incorporate into your routine:

1. Always warm up before singing: Just as you would stretch before a workout, warming up your voice is essential. Dedicate 10 to 20 minutes to warming up all your registers and avoid cutting corners.
2. Hydrate your voice: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, especially before performances. Adequate hydration lubricates your vocal cords, allowing them to vibrate properly. Aim to drink at least 6 glasses of water 2 hours before singing.
3. Get enough sleep: Sufficient rest is essential for recharging your body and voice. Fatigue can lead to a lack of focus, clarity, volume, and tone quality. Prioritize getting the recommended amount of sleep before vocal performances.
4. Sing from your diaphragm, not your throat: Singing well and maintaining vocal health requires understanding your body and using proper technique. Support your breathing with your diaphragm, allowing your vocal cords to relax. Let your voice resonate in your chest, pharynx, and face rather than pushing from your throat.
5. Rest your voice when sick: If you’re feeling unwell, refrain from singing. Ignoring warning signs, such as a raspy voice, can result in long-term damage. Listen to your body and give your voice the rest it needs until you recover.