What are the benefits of diaphragmatic breathing for vocal health and performance?

1 What is diaphragmatic breathing?

Diaphragmatic breathing is the natural way of breathing that we use when we are relaxed or asleep. It involves expanding the lower part of the chest and the abdomen as you inhale, and contracting them as you exhale. This way, you use the full capacity of your lungs and avoid unnecessary tension in your throat, neck, and shoulders. When you sing, diaphragmatic breathing allows you to regulate the amount and speed of air that flows through your vocal cords, which affects the pitch, volume, and tone of your voice.

2 How to practice diaphragmatic breathing?

To practice diaphragmatic breathing, you can start by lying down on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach. Breathe in slowly through your nose and feel your stomach rise as your diaphragm lowers. Breathe out slowly through your mouth and feel your stomach fall as your diaphragm rises. Keep your chest still and relaxed. Repeat this for a few minutes, then try it in different positions, such as sitting, standing, or walking. You can also use a metronome or a timer to pace your breathing and make it more consistent.

3 What are the benefits for vocal health?

Diaphragmatic breathing can help you prevent or reduce vocal fatigue, which is the feeling of strain or discomfort in your voice after prolonged or intense singing. Vocal fatigue can lead to vocal damage, such as nodules, polyps, or hemorrhage, if left untreated. By using diaphragmatic breathing, you can avoid overworking your vocal cords and keep them hydrated and lubricated. You can also reduce the risk of developing bad habits, such as pushing, squeezing, or shouting, that can harm your voice. Diaphragmatic breathing can also help you cope with stress, anxiety, or nervousness, which can affect your vocal health.

4 What are the benefits for vocal performance?

Diaphragmatic breathing can help you improve your vocal performance in many aspects, such as range, quality, and expression. By using diaphragmatic breathing, you can increase your vocal range, which is the span of notes that you can sing comfortably and accurately. You can also enhance your vocal quality, which is the clarity, richness, and resonance of your voice. You can also express your emotions more effectively, as diaphragmatic breathing allows you to control the dynamics, phrasing, and articulation of your singing. Diaphragmatic breathing can also help you sing with more confidence, ease, and enjoyment.

5 How to apply diaphragmatic breathing to singing?

To apply diaphragmatic breathing to singing, you need to integrate it with other aspects of vocal technique, such as posture, alignment, support, and resonance. You also need to practice it regularly and consistently, both in isolation and in context. You can use exercises, scales, arpeggios, or songs to practice diaphragmatic breathing and monitor your progress. You can also use feedback, such as a mirror, a recorder, or a vocal coach, to check your breathing and correct any errors. You can also experiment with different styles, genres, and emotions to see how diaphragmatic breathing affects your singing.

6 How to find a vocal coach for diaphragmatic breathing?

If you want to learn more about diaphragmatic breathing and how to apply it to your singing, you may benefit from working with a vocal coach. A vocal coach is a professional who can teach you the principles and techniques of diaphragmatic breathing and other aspects of vocal production. A vocal coach can also assess your strengths and weaknesses, tailor your exercises and repertoire, and guide you through your goals and challenges. To find a vocal coach for diaphragmatic breathing, you can look for online or offline platforms that offer vocal coaching services, such as websites, apps, or studios. You can also ask for recommendations from other singers, teachers, or friends.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?