Here Are 3 Simple Exercises to Strengthen A Weak Voice! You only need a few minutes per day...

Summary

Dr. Robert Bastian discusses the importance of vocal muscle strength for a strong voice, comparing it to physical muscle development. He suggests three vocal exercises to build voice strength: the 'voice of authority,' 'ship ahoy,' and a siren sound, emphasizing the need for intensity and proper technique. These exercises should be practiced briefly, several times a day, to gradually improve vocal stamina and projection. Dr. Bastian also advises seeking professional help if self-improvement efforts are insufficient.

Takeaways

• 💪 Muscles, including vocal muscles, strengthen through use and exercise, similar to how bodybuilders and physically active individuals develop muscular strength.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Sedentary lifestyles can lead to muscle weakness, affecting not only the body but also the ability to produce a strong voice.
• 🗣️ The vocal cords are muscles that require strength to produce a clear and strong voice, and weakness in these muscles can lead to vocal difficulties.
• 👶 Aging and illness can cause the weakening of muscles, including those in the larynx, affecting voice quality and projection.
• 🏥 Before undertaking voice building exercises, it's important to rule out other conditions like nodules, polyps, or neurological disorders.
• 📣 A DIY voice building strategy involves three vocal tasks performed assertively and aggressively to strengthen the vocal muscles.
• 📢 The exercises include the 'voice of authority', the 'ship ahoy' call, and a siren-like scale from the lowest to the highest pitch.
• ⏱️ Each vocal task should be performed for about 20 seconds, multiple times a day, for a total of one minute per exercise session.
• 👥 Quiet individuals may benefit from an observer to ensure they are performing the exercises with enough effort and intensity.
• 🔁 Consistent practice over a minimum of two weeks is recommended to assess the effectiveness of the voice building exercises.
• 🚀 If self-guided voice building is not sufficient, further assistance from a speech pathologist or laryngologist may be considered.

Q & A

What is the general idea of the video script presented by Dr. Robert Bastian?

The script discusses the concept of muscle strength, particularly focusing on the muscles involved in voice production, and provides strategies for building vocal strength.

How does Dr. Bastian suggest keeping muscles strong in general?

Dr. Bastian suggests that muscles become strong by being used regularly, either through a structured exercise regimen or through daily activities that require muscular effort.

What are the three typical kinds of people Dr. Bastian describes in relation to their muscle usage?

The three groups are: bodybuilders who regularly work out at the gym, people with physically demanding jobs such as carpenters or daycare workers, and sedentary individuals who have minimal muscle use due to their lifestyle.

How does Dr. Bastian explain the importance of using the muscles within the larynx and vocal tract?

He emphasizes that just like other muscles in the body, the muscles in the larynx and vocal tract need to be used and challenged to maintain strength and produce a strong, clear voice.

What are the consequences of having weak vocal muscles according to the script?

Weak vocal muscles can lead to a weak, faded voice that may not project well in noisy environments and can sound thin or gravelly, causing difficulties in communication.

What is the 'voice of authority' exercise suggested by Dr. Bastian for building vocal strength?

The 'voice of authority' exercise involves speaking loudly and assertively, using a low, emphatic tone, as if commanding attention or expressing anger.

What is the 'ship ahoy' voice exercise and how is it different from the 'voice of authority'?

The 'ship ahoy' voice exercise involves projecting one's voice as if calling across a distance, using a loud voice that is different in quality from the authoritative, low-pitched voice.

Can you explain the 'siren' exercise mentioned by Dr. Bastian?

The 'siren' exercise involves sliding one's voice from the lowest to the highest pitch possible, mimicking the sound of a siren, and is meant to challenge the vocal muscles in a different way.

How long should each vocal exercise be performed according to Dr. Bastian's regimen?

Each vocal exercise should be performed for about 20 seconds, with the total daily regimen not exceeding a few minutes spread across multiple sessions.

What is the expected outcome of Dr. Bastian's voice building process after two weeks of consistent practice?

After two weeks, individuals should notice an improvement in their vocal strength and stamina, even if their everyday speaking voice remains largely the same. They may find that their voice holds up better in loud situations.

What should one do if they find that voice building exercises are not improving their voice sufficiently?

If voice building exercises do not yield satisfactory results, one should consider seeking professional help from a speech pathologist or a laryngologist to explore other potential solutions.

How does Dr. Bastian suggest practicing the vocal exercises without disturbing others?

He suggests practicing in places where one's voice will not disturb others, such as in the shower, while driving, or in a basement. For those in apartments, he humorously advises warning neighbors or practicing with a pillow over the face to muffle the sound.

What is the significance of over-articulating during the vocal exercises as mentioned by Dr. Bastian?

Over-articulating helps to improve the clarity and intelligibility of speech, which is an important aspect of voice quality, in addition to loudness and strength.