W So what’s new? We all breathe.
But how do we breathe? That’s the question.
I first learned to “use my diaphragm” to project my voice when I was an acting student in the ‘60s. Soon thereafter when I was a speech pathology student, I again learned to “use my diaphragm,” and to teach others to use theirs. Fast-forward about 40 years. My daughter reminds me to “use my diaphragm” when I speak: “Use your ‘D,’ dad.”
Fast-forward about 10 more years — to the present. I take a yoga class and learn to concentrate on my deep breathing to reduce stress. At the same time, I take a singing class and practice using my diaphragm to project my voice.
It all works together. Not only does my voice sound better when I “use my diaphragm,” but it also helps me to reduce stress and, consequently, reduce the frequency of my 36-year-duration “cough variant asthma.”
So just how do you “use your diaphragm”? The diaphragm is a sheet of muscle that extends across the bottom of the rib cage. You cannot feel your diaphragm, but you can learn to make it work harder and better for you.
First, lie down and place your crossed hands over your belly. As you speak, if you are relaxed and, especially if you sigh out loud, you will automatically (thanks to gravity) be using your diaphragm. Now sit or stand and place your crossed hands on your belly, just below your lower ribs. Relax and push in with your hands as you say “ah” — open your mouth wide and pretend you are “throwing up” air — pretend that the sound is coming from beneath your rib cage – i.e., your diaphragm. Next, try saying a phrase such as “I like ice cream,” but say it like this: “aaaaaaiiiiii liiiiiike iiiiiice creeeeem.” Each vowel sound is produced as your hands aid your diaphragm’s upward movement. Now, try saying that phrase without holding your hands on your belly. Think: “Suck it in” as you contract your stomach muscles. I think you’ve got the idea.
Using your diaphragm allows your voice (vocal folds – not vocal cords) and vocal muscles to relax. When you take in a breath, your diaphragm is pulled down. When you breathe out (with or without vocalization), your diaphragm rises. The trick is to maximize use of your diaphragm, which minimizes tension in the vocal area. You can try to make it a habit. It is not easy, but it is a very worthwhile project. Ehhhhnjoiiiii!
Mr. Ebsen may be contacted at robertebsen@hotmail.com
