Music Minute Monday: Staying Healthy During Seasonal Changes
Have you ever found that in those “weird” months between seasons, your allergies just seem to sneak up on you? Or, perhaps your voice and/or musical performance just isn’t what it should be?
The weather is changing, and SO ARE YOU! It’s the (sing it with me,) CIIIIIIIRCLE OF LIIIIIIIIIFE! (Don’t @ us, Disney.)
Your body is literally trying to keep up with the rise and fall of atmospheric pressures, the changes in winds, temperatures, and pollen floating around! So, what can you do to stay healthy?
Here are some quick and easy tips to help you out!
DRINK. WATER.
The easiest of the solutions. Your body is mostly water, so why not feed it what it wants? Water keeps you hydrated which, in turn, energizes you, your mood, and your entire body. When your body has more of what it needs to function, it’s much easier for it to perform. Pro tip: Buy a water bottle you want to show off. You’ll be more excited to take it everywhere!
Local honey
Local honey can be found at your local grocery store, farmer’s market, or even online! Honey is not only a great source of nutrients; it’s also a great way to get your body used to the pollen in your area. For vocalists, honey is also a saving grace for when your voice needs a little extra boost.
Vocal steaming/misting
You can either buy a vocal steamer (I personally have the myPurmist 2), or you can take hot showers and add “shower soothers” (you can get them from CVS or Walgreens), or add peppermint and rosemary essential oils to help open up your sinuses. Steam is like a moisturizing treatment for your vocal chords; not only does it help them recover faster, but it helps them stay healthy for longer!
Stay active!
Not only does physical activity keep your cardiovascular system in working order but, as an added bonus, it helps your vocal chords stay oxidized. In turn, this helps them function properly!
These tips and tricks are what I recommend for all of my students — and what I do in my own practices. Should you fall victim to allergies, consult your doctor to see if any of these remedies are right for you.