How to Eliminate Vocal Strain Permanently

Are you tired of straining your voice while singing? Whether you're hitting high notes or struggling with lower pitches, vocal strain can be a frustrating hurdle for many singers. In this episode, we will explore practical techniques to help you release that strain and achieve the vocal freedom you desire.

Understanding Vocal Strain

To effectively combat vocal strain, we first need to understand what it is and why it happens. Many beginner singers mistakenly believe that straining is a normal part of singing, especially when reaching for high notes. This misconception can lead to harmful vocal habits that hinder progress.

Another common belief is that repeating strained singing will eventually improve vocal performance. Unfortunately, this is often counterproductive. Instead of improving, straining can worsen your vocal health if not addressed correctly.

Lastly, some singers feel that talent is a prerequisite for reaching high or low notes. However, the truth is that proper vocal training is far more important than innate talent. By focusing on the right techniques, anyone can learn to sing without straining.

Common Misconceptions About Singing

Before we delve deeper into techniques, let's address some misconceptions that can hold you back:

• Straining is Normal: Many beginners think vocal strain is a part of the process, especially when singing high notes. This is not true.
• More Practice Equals Improvement: Simply singing more often without the right techniques can lead to further strain and vocal damage.
• Talent Over Training: The belief that only naturally talented singers can hit high notes is misleading. Vocal training is essential for all singers.

The Importance of Awareness

The first step in overcoming vocal strain is awareness. You need to identify when and where you feel strain while singing. A great way to do this is by singing a familiar song and paying attention to how your voice feels at various points.

For example, let’s take a look at the classic song "Mamma Mia" by ABBA. Start by singing the chorus and notice any sensations in your throat or vocal cords. Are you feeling tension? If so, at which parts? This awareness is crucial as it informs your next steps.

Activity: Sing Along with 'Mamma Mia'

Let’s practice this together. Sing the following lines:

Mama Mia, here I go again. Mama Mia, how can I resist you? Mama Mia, does it show again? Mama Mia, just how much I missed you.

As you sing, pay close attention to your vocal sensations. Did you feel any strain? If so, at which parts?

Identifying Your Vocal Registers

Once you have assessed your singing experience, the next step is to identify your vocal registers. There are primarily three registers to be aware of:

• Chest Voice: This is your lower register used for speaking and singing lower notes.
• Mix Voice: This register blends chest and head voice, allowing for a smoother transition.
• Head Voice: This is typically used for higher notes and requires a different technique than chest voice.

When you feel strain, it could be that you are trying to sing in the wrong register. For instance, if you are singing a high note in chest voice, you might feel strain. Conversely, if you are trying to sing lower notes in head voice, you may also encounter difficulty.

Activity: Explore Your Registers

Let’s practice identifying your registers. Start with a warm, low note to find your chest voice. Then, try a higher pitch with a “YOOHOO!” to access your head voice. Observe where you feel comfortable and where you experience strain.

Adjusting Your Technique

The final step in eliminating vocal strain is making adjustments based on your findings. If you notice strain in a particular section, try switching to a different register. For example, if you feel strain while singing:

“Yes, I've been brokenhearted.”

Consider singing it in mix voice instead:

“Yes, I've been brokenhearted.”

This adjustment can often relieve strain and improve your vocal performance. Experiment with different registers until you find the one that feels right for you.

Final Activity: Practice with Adjustments

Let’s put this into practice one last time. Sing the chorus of "Mamma Mia" again, but this time, if you feel strain, switch registers. Try singing the line in chest voice, then in mix voice, and finally in head voice. Notice the differences in how your voice feels.

Conclusion: The Path to Vocal Freedom

Overcoming vocal strain is a journey that requires awareness, understanding of your vocal registers, and the willingness to adjust your technique. Remember that it’s not about how often you sing, but how you sing. With practice and the right techniques, you can achieve the vocal freedom you desire.

As you continue to work on your singing, keep in mind that developing your mix voice and understanding your vocal registers will take time. Be patient with yourself and enjoy the journey. If you found this information helpful, consider subscribing for more tips and techniques to enhance your singing skills. 

👀 Secret Mix Voice Training Video: https://www.singinginsiders.com/secret-video-opt-in

If you’re a passionate singer, and you're struggling with hoarseness, tension or straining while singing, despite your best effort to sing certain vocal exercises or try to copy the sound of the original artist, I'd like to show you how to sing powerful high notes and expand your range without any straining, tension or hoarseness so that you can sing all of your favorite songs easily and effortlessly.

Even if you typically struggle to practice and train your voice because of a lack of time because you might have other responsibilities (like a job or kids!).

Grab the free secret Mix Voice Training here: https://www.singinginsiders.com/secret-video-opt-in

---

If you're ready to up-level your singing, be surrounded by a team of coaches to help you throughout your singing journey and be part of a community of like-minded singers, then the Singing Insiders membership is for you! Click here to join the waitlist: https://www.singinginsiders.com/si-waitlist

Ready to sing high notes easily and expand your range fast? Register for this FREE training walking you through the step-by-step process to develop your mix voice:  https://www.singinginsiders.com/shne-training-opt-in-fnl