Humming – The Vocal Gymnasium
Mastery in playing an instrument is birthed through daily practice. Initially this is a conscious effort, however over time it seamlessly transitions into a subconscious therapeutic habit. If there was an award for the worlds most eclectic, dexterous and priceless instrument – it would go to.. The Voice! One way to master optimum resonance, nuances and tones with your voice, (both spoken word & singing), is to daily treat yourself to the vocal gymnasium that is humming.
Unlike other gyms, the motto ‘no pain no gain’ certainly does not exist here, for unforced humming creates a pleasurable buzzing sensation and vibrations, that are even said to have the propensity to alleviate stress, soothe your sinuses and induce euphoria. The tone emanates from the nasal passages and studies indicate that humming is often associated with increased nitric oxide levels, which boosts airflow between the sinuses and the nasal cavity. Airflow is the commodity that sets the vocal folds into motion. In short, humming promotes vocal clarity and ameliorates vocal health.
No wonder humming is a vocal warm up that scores of voiceover artists swear by! Music has an incredible knack of transporting you to various places, emotionally-speaking. The tone and mood of a given read, may actually influence the songs that I choose to hum along to, in preparation for a read. Stevie Wonder, Jorja Smith, Raphael Saadiq, Jhené Aiko, Paul Nedzela, Sabrina Claudio, Bobby Womack, Nao, Gregory Porter, H.E.R, Amy Winehouse, Kem, Jessie Boykins III and Omar are just a handful of some of the artists in my recent ‘humming’ playlists. Love it!
So make it a daily habit to exercise at this fascinating and therapeutic vocal gymnasium – hum your worries away, keep your voice fit, sleek and booming! Your voice is your signature – your unique identifier, there will never be another voice quite like yours. It can be imitated but never duplicated. Take your voice seriously then others will too.
