Unlocking Your Voice: How to Release Tongue Tension and Sing with Freedom

Unlocking Your Voice: How to Release Tongue Tension and Sing with Freedom

Jan 3, 2025 | Health, Singer

For many singers, tongue tension can feel like an invisible barrier, holding back their vocal potential. This unwanted tension can manifest in various ways, from strained vocal cords to difficulty reaching higher notes. But the good news is, you can learn to release tongue tension and unlock a more resonant, powerful voice.

What is Tongue Tension in Singing?

Tongue tension refers to any unnecessary tightness or restriction in the tongue muscles while singing. This can include:

  • Excessive tongue pressure: Applying too much force against the teeth or roof of the mouth.
  • Retracted tongue: Pulling the tongue back and away from the front teeth.
  • Stiff tongue: Lack of flexibility and agility in tongue movement.

Why is it a problem? Simply put, a tense tongue restricts airflow and hinders vocal resonance. It can lead to:

  • Vocal strain and fatigue:  Increased effort to produce sound.
  • Limited vocal range: Difficulty accessing higher notes or sustaining longer phrases.
  • Unclear diction: Muffled or slurred pronunciation.
  • Breathiness and inconsistency: Difficulty maintaining a consistent tone.

Recognizing Tongue Tension

Identifying tongue tension can be tricky. Some common signs include:

  • Jaw clenching or tension
  • Feeling of pressure or tightness in the throat
  • Difficulty articulating consonants clearly
  • A sense of “choking” or restriction while singing

Effective Exercises to Release Tongue Tension

The key to overcoming tongue tension lies in gentle, consistent exercises that promote relaxation and flexibility. Here are a few simple techniques to incorporate into your vocal warm-ups:

  1. “Ah-Ooo” Exercise:
    • Start by singing a sustained “ah” vowel and use a mirror to make sure your tongue is relaxed down and forward
    • Gradually transition to an “oo” vowel, and keep your tongue in a “fat and flat” position, resting gently behind your bottom teeth
    • Repeat this exercise several times, focusing on smooth, effortless transitions
  2. “Raspberry”:
    • Stick your tongue out, and then flutter it with a puff of air creating a light, trilling sound (as if you’re a kid with your fingers in your ears – teasing someone)
    • This exercise helps to relax and coordinate the tongue muscles

Incorporating Tongue Release into Your Singing Practice

  • Warm-up consistently: Dedicate a few minutes each day to vocal warm-ups that incorporate tongue release exercises.
  • Practice with awareness: Pay attention to your tongue movement while singing. Use a mirror to catch it. Are you holding any unnecessary tension? 
  • Record yourself: Recording your singing can help you identify areas where you may be holding tension.
  • Seek guidance from a vocal coach: A qualified vocal coach can provide personalized guidance and feedback on your technique, including tongue tension release strategies.

By incorporating these techniques into your singing practice, you can gradually release tongue tension and unlock a more vibrant, expressive voice.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you experience persistent vocal difficulties, please consult with a qualified vocal coach or speech-language pathologist.

“Throat Hurts When I Sing”? Understanding Vocal Strain and the Power of the Staircase

“Throat Hurts When I Sing”? Understanding Vocal Strain and the Power of the Staircase

Nov 14, 2024 | Health, Singer, Vocal Coach, Vocal Coaching, Vocal Lessons

Do you experience throat pain after singing? Does it hurt to sing even short phrases? You’re not alone. Many singers, from aspiring amateurs to seasoned professionals, grapple with vocal strain at some point in their careers. I want to delve into the root causes of vocal strain and explore how understanding and utilizing the “staircase” – a crucial element of the mix voice – can protect your vocal health and unlock your full vocal potential. (Read more about the true “mix voice” here.)

Common Culprits of Vocal Strain

Vocal strain arises when the vocal cords are subjected to excessive stress or misuse. Common culprits include:

  • Overuse: Pushing your voice too hard for extended periods, such as during long rehearsals or performances.
  • Bad Technique: Improper vocal technique, such as singing with only your chest voice and head voice, and not utilizing the mix voice. This can include yelling, screaming, or constantly singing in your vocal extremes.
  • Vocal abuse: Habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and dehydration can significantly impact vocal health.
  • Underlying medical conditions: Conditions like acid reflux, allergies, and sinus infections can irritate the vocal cords and contribute to vocal strain.

Recognizing the Signs of Vocal Strain

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s crucial to address the issue:

  • “Throat hurts when I sing” – Persistent throat pain or discomfort during or after singing.
  • Hoarseness: A rough or raspy voice.
  • Loss of vocal range: Difficulty reaching high notes or sustaining vocal cords. (More about that here.)
  • Vocal fatigue: Feeling tired or strained in the voice after minimal singing.
  • “Hurt my voice” – Experiencing pain or discomfort when speaking.

The Misunderstood “Mix Voice”

Many vocal coaches define the mix voice as a blend between chest voice and head voice. While this simplistic view has some truth, it’s an oversimplification of this magical vocal skill.

In my approach, the mix voice is not simply a blend, but rather a seamless transition through the “staircase.” The “staircase” refers to the pharyngeal voice, a vertical resonating space in the back of the throat. By skillfully navigating through the “staircase,” singers can access a balanced and supported vocal sound across their entire range without undue strain.

How the “Staircase” Protects Your Voice

Many singers get “stuck” in either the lower register (chest voice) or the higher register (head voice) and have never been trained to smoothly transition between the two without strain by moving up or down the vocal “staircase.” 

The singers who do this well are usually the ones giving us goosebumps with their control, and their voices stay strong and reliable even through demanding touring or recording schedules. Now, the voice is only flesh and blood, so rest is still required, regardless of the singer’s level of talent… but injury is not the same thing as normal everyday use.

Protecting Your Voice: Tips for Prevention

Most coaches or vocal routines emphasize hydration, rest, steam, and hot tea, etc., and even though these steps are good, they overlook THE most important strain prevention tool that is crucial for a singer:

Mastering their mix voice.

Water is great for your voice, but drinking it won’t make you suddenly aware of a vocal technique that could make or break your singing career. 

Same goes for hot tea, steam, rest, etc. Many of these are unnecessary to obsess over when you dial in the right voice-saving techniques.

Vocal Strain is a Serious Concern for Singers of All Levels.

By understanding the underlying causes and implementing healthy vocal habits, you can protect your voice and unlock your full vocal potential.

If you’re ready to explore the power of the “staircase” and experience a more effortless, resonant, and healthy voice, I invite you to schedule a coaching session. Let’s work together to unlock your unique vocal potential and achieve your singing goals.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you experience persistent vocal strain or other voice-related issues, please consult with a qualified medical professional such as an ENT specializing in voice disorders.

 Vocal Health: 5 Essential Tools and Products for Singers

 Vocal Health: 5 Essential Tools and Products for Singers

Jul 19, 2024 | Health, Knowledge Hub, Singer

As a singer, maintaining your vocal health is crucial. Regular practice and vocal training is of course the first place to start, but there are also several tools and products that can support your voice. Here are my absolute must-haves and favorites! (Click here to see these products in list-view.)

1. Vocal Steamer or Humidifier

A vocal humidifier is an essential tool for any singer. Keeping your vocal cords lubricated is crucial, especially if you frequently perform or live in a dry climate. Proper hydration helps maintain the flexibility and health of your vocal cords, reducing the risk of strain and damage.

  • MyPurMist Handheld Steam Inhaler: This vocal humidifier for singers is a favorite among performers for its ability to deliver instant, germ-free steam. It’s portable and easy to use, making it a perfect pre-performance warm-up or soothing ritual after a long rehearsal.
  • Room Humidifier: This room humidifier for your voice and body will keep things hydrated while you sleep, and cut down on mucus production. Choose between warm or cool mist, and even add essential oils to diffuse, so your throat is soothed all night long.

2. Throat Spray

Throat sprays can provide immediate relief and protection for your vocal cords. They can be especially useful before and after performances or during long practice sessions. This one is my favorite.

3. Health Supplements

Maintaining a healthy body is crucial if you want to be a healthy singer. In addition to drinking plenty of water, certain supplements can support overall vocal performance.

  • NeoLife Vitamins: Whole-food supplements designed to fill the gaps in your diet, so your body is healthy and your vocal cord tissue is strong. They balance hormones and feed your cells. (Both directly affect your voice.)

4. Vocal Warm-Up and Training Tools

Regular vocal warm-ups and vocal exercises are essential for any singer. This tool can help you optimize your practice sessions and protect your voice.

  • The Singing Straw: Using this straw for vocal exercises can help improve breath control and vocal resonance. This therapy kit includes different sizes of straws to aid in various warm-up routines and vocal techniques.
  • The Singer’s App – A free tool for vocalists with warmups, community, and live Zoom calls with professional vocal coaches

6. Hot Tea

For singers who perform live or record in a studio often, good-quality hot tea is a must-have. But there’s a key to picking the right one.

  • The Voice Tea: Conventional teas actually dry your voice out and fill your body with chemicals, which means… time to toss the Throat Coat. The Voice Tea is hand-crafted, organic, and herbal. It promotes vocal health and enhances performance for singers, but these blends are also soothing and delicious. Made with just a few whole ingredients.

The moral of the story is… maintaining and enhancing your vocal performance requires a combination of learning proper technique, consistent practice, a healthy body, and the right tools. From vocal humidifiers for singers to all-natural supplements, the products listed above are my favorites for helping you protect and improve your voice. Investing in these tools not only enhances your performance but also ensures the longevity of your vocal career. 

Remember, taking care of your voice is an ongoing process, and having the right products can make all the difference.