Breathing and Singing

The way we breathe has a profound effect on the voice. Over breathing can set a biochemical chain of events which may adversely affect the voice due increase in muscular tension.  Singers and actors are taught in a multitude of ways to breathe and there is much confusion over the correct method.  We believe having a good resting postural balance within the body (no compression of the ribcage or abdomen) and good resting breathing rates to provide an ideal foundation.

Breathing exercises which are designed to increase lung capacity may pressurize the larynx and drive it up.  Initially there are benefits of high loud, accurate singing however due to sub glottal pressure the voice may lose its range and become harsh.  Maintaining a strong downward spring of the larynx, hyoid bone and tongue is essential for a flexible mechanism.

We are designed to breathe through the nose, warming, filtering and humidifying the air, before the air passes through the complete vocal tract. With diaphragm movements the air is gently drawn into the lungs. The tongue resting in the roof of the mouth promotes good growth and development of the orofacial complex.

If the tongue rests low in the mouth the hyoid and larynx are unnaturally raised.  With imbalance of tongue posture the weight limits the downward excursion of the complete breathing and vocal tract, the throat narrows, the position of the epiglottis is compromised and natural effortless breathing turns into shallow tiring breathing.  Upper chest muscles are used, the shoulders are drawn down and forward, a head forward posture will also occur.

Following a comprehensive assessment of the orofacial complex, clinicians at MyoDynamics can help improve the resting postures and functional patterns of the breathing/vocal complex.