Singer Down! What to do when illness strikes
You’ve done everything right, big scarf, lots of water, no socialising, threw salt over your shoulder… but illness can still strike!
We’ve all been there, a busy Christmas Schedule/Auditions/Performance time and all of a sudden… ‘is that a slight sore throat?’, ‘how many times have I sneezed today?’, ‘my speaking voice feels more raspy today…’
So. You have two options, 1. panic, panic and worry, or 2. hunker down and read every piece of internet advice and old singer folklore on tinctures, lucky omens and cures… there’s got to be a magic tea or brand of cough sweet to help?
No. Fear not, for I bring you news of modern medical science! Here is your third option: Follow my list of practical and proven methods to help, with some science to back them up (Please see links below for a little science).
Plus, feeling proactive and taking control will help give you a positive mindset, as you need your energy for healing, not mental anguish!
This list is meant as a lighthearted self-help guide for standard colds and viruses - but please seek medical advice if you are experiencing medical symptoms that are more serious or you are worried. Remember that what starts as a simple cold may have a longer effect on your voice/health that requires the services of a medical expert, so monitor your progress and find help if you need it.
Cancel Work/Performances
This is a tricky one, as no one likes to cancel. It can be hard to let people down, or go without income. But there is more harm to be done trying to sing when you are not well and possibly straining your voice. You will not be singing your best, your audience will not be enjoying your best performance. We’ve all sung while ill, it isn’t pleasant, and it can hinder your recovery. Please try to cancel when you need to.
2. Vocal Rest
You’ve maybe heard about it, there are many famous singers who have talked about it like Mariah Carey, or maybe you haven’t. This is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to ensure you heal and recover as quickly as possible, and get back to singing as soon as you are able to.
When your throat/vocal tract/vocal chords are enflamed and swollen, or maybe you are coughing a lot, it can be very helpful to talk as little as possible, and certainly don’t sing. It’s the equivalent of staying off a twisted ankle while the swelling goes down. There is also evidence that whispering or playing a woodwind/brass instrument may not be helpful.
Your aim is to reduce the the tension and burden in the area while the muscles and soft tissues are inflamed. Relative voice rest (as opposed to total voice rest) is one of your best hopes.
3. Fluids
You are already dedicated to keeping hydrated, so keep this up when you are ill. Water, Caffeine, Juice, or herbal teas, they are all good for you and helpful if you have are ill or fighting a temperature. Many singers swear by hot water with lemon and honey - I certainly find this very soothing. I do not use expensive honey, sometimes I add some fresh ginger, and nothing more exciting than a lemon wedge. It is certainly no worse or better than cough medicine! Plus, you may already have these ingredients in your home.
3.5 Nebuliser
There is evidence to suggest that the use of a nebuliser to inhale (0.9% NaCl) saline solution can have benefits for singers.
There is a perceived decrease in discomfort, and an increase in the mucosal wave of the vocal folds.
Many singers use them also for travel when flying or when around air conditioned atmospheres, as they can improve the feeling of being dry, even if you are not dehydrated.
There are lots of sources to research the benefits, you can read more in this article:
4. Finding other ways to Work - optional!
It can be frustrating feeling like your busy schedule is suddenly decimated - but if you want and have energy, there are other things you can do without physically singing.
update your website, CV, Biography. Write your next blog/newsletter
update your tax return info. Whatever system you are using, make sure everything is up to date, or research a new system/accountant/tax breaks you could make use of
Learn words. You can still listen and learn words, write in translations and pronunciation into your scores
research new repertoire/concert work. Listen to new composers/compositions
5. Rest
Overlooked, and often ignored. It’s ok to just have a duvet week: sleep, eat, and watch your favourite box sets. Enjoy the time you have been given to focus on you and get yourself better.
There are lots of relaxing audio books and guided relaxation tracks to make use of, so that you keep calm, rested, and positive as you come through your cold. Finally getting around to reading that positive mindset manual is being your future friend!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this short list of things to help you get back on your feet and singing the high (or low!) notes. Take care of yourself and get well soon!
