Open a PDF version to print this topic

HealthInfo Aoraki South Canterbury

Tips for looking after your voice

Ngā āwhinatanga e tiakina ai tō reo

It is important to take care of your voice, especially if you use it a lot for work or as a hobby. The following tips can help.

Use good voice production techniques. For example:

Drink at least eight cups of fluid a day. Water is best.

Be careful with alcohol. It also dehydrates your body. If you do have alcohol, make sure you have extra water.

Treat your voice with care if it sounds different. This could be because you are developing a cold or the flu. Or perhaps you are run down.

Ensure your home is not too dry and avoid other environments that might harm your voice. These include smoky rooms and air-conditioned buildings. If you cannot avoid them, limit the time you spend in them.

Tension in your body can affect your voice. Gently stretch your shoulder and neck muscles throughout the day.

Written by speech-language therapists, Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Waitaha Canterbury. Adapted by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed July 2023.

Sources

Page reference: 121824

Review key: HISCD-79694