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Archive for the ‘science’ Category

Caring for the professional voice

26 May

The human voice is an extraordinary medium capable of communicating complex thoughts and subtle emotions. It is the primary tool through which most of us project our personalities. Voice is the sound formed in the larynx and articulated through the mouth.

Professionals who use their voice constitute an ever increasing segment of our population that includes not only singers and actors but also lawyers, politicians, priests, lecturers, telephone operators and salesmen who depend on vocal endurance and quality for their livelihoods. Among them professional singers are the worst affected.

So how do you take care of your voice?

No voice abuse. Singing or speaking at high decibels would not only exploit your voice but also rip apart other’s ears. So what happens when you are angry and want to vent out your feelings by shouting out as loud as you can? NOW!! You have to figure that out.

Stress, both physical and psychological, has profound effects on the voice. Proper rest, nutrition, adequate hydration and regular exercise are necessary to stave off stress. Limit hectic socializing, parties, dinners etc. Research also advocates that alcohol, tobacco, spicy food, milk, COFFEE, NUTS and CHOCOLATES have adverse effects on the voice. Oops !! Can’t imagine sacrificing some of those goodies.

Voice related problems vary with individuals. Identifying what is good for you and what is not is something that has to be worked upon. Caring for the professional voice needs a very special combination of arts and science.

 
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Music Music and more Music!!

06 May

Waking up to M.S. Subbalakshmi’s suprabatham is an exquisite feeling.  After a tumultuous period of shifting my residence, the suprabatham from the temple nearby came as a great relief. Though the house was in a total mess and my muscles were sore from lifting heavy cartons of books and cutleries, my mind was unruffled. Tranquility and serenity filled me.

Music has a profound impact on your body and psyche. Listening to soft and soothing music is said to alleviate stress and calm your senses. Music enhances the metabolic activities within your body. It stimulates the brain, improves muscular coordination and ousts fatigue. Since ancient times music has been used for therapeutic purposes. Melody is an imperative aspect of Indian Classical Music. ‘Raga’ is the basis of melody and some of these ragas are being extensively used in music therapy. Physiological, psychological, intellectual and spiritual effects confirm the importance of music in our lives.

So folks, listen to music all the time and if your neighbours grumble tell them to read my blog.

 
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Music and your brain

15 Apr

The other day I read an article in a magazine that talked about the impact of music on the human brain. All of us, at one time or the other would have felt the need for a more agile mind. Many a time we wonder why our memory is failing us. Neuroscientists are now investigating a quality called brain plasticity, which is a lifelong ability of the brain to reorganize itself and adapt to new experiences. And the easiest way to study this is in professional musicians. This may be due to the intensive musical training that in turn enhances memory and retention. Musical training is said to bring about positive changes in the brains of children. Researchers speculate that it might even improve reading and writing skills. Music Therapy, to improve memory in stroke patients is a proven fact.

So those of you, who croon in the bathroom, go on.  And if anybody stops you blame it on brain plasticity !

 
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