The Whole-Body Approach to Enhancing Your Singing Skills

by Dr Daniel K Robinson - May 26, 2023

Read Time: 3mins

Hey there, Dr Dan here. I’m sure you’ve already heard about the importance of focusing on your neck and head while singing. But, to become a truly well-rounded vocalist, paying attention to your entire body is crucial. In this blog post, I’ll share six techniques that will help you manage your complete body instrument and significantly improve your posture for singing. Plus, I’ve added some external resources for you to explore and learn even more. Let’s dive in!

  1. The Feldenkrais Method

Developed by Moshe Feldenkrais, this method directs your attention to the subtle movements your body makes during various activities. This rewiring of neural pathways and muscular patterns can alleviate limitations experienced when moving in performance and practice. Although I am not a certified Feldenkrais instructor, I have seen the positive influence of this method on my own teaching and highly recommend taking lessons from a trained instructor. Learn more about the Feldenkrais Method.

  1. The Alexander Technique

Much like the Feldenkrais Method, the Alexander Technique enables performers to attain improved posture by developing their kinesthetic awareness. I have personally observed the transformation from unfamiliarity to comfort with consistent practice. While I am not a certified Alexander Technique instructor, I am confident that learning from a skilled professional can yield remarkable benefits. Discover more about the Alexander Technique.

  1. Body Mapping

Body Mapping is based on the idea that each anatomical structure has a representation in the brain. Developed by William Conable, Body Mapping helps singers and instrumentalists better understand their body’s organisation more accurately. I regularly encourage my students to refine their body maps. I’ve observed that being more physically attuned leads to better singing. Find out more about Body Mapping.

  1. Myofascial Release

Myofascial release targets the connective tissue surrounding every part of your body, facilitating the maintenance of the skeletal structure and alleviating poor structural behaviours. I highly recommend this technique for singers who regularly feel tight and physically restricted. Seek out a physical therapist who practices myofascial release for this treatment. Learn more about Myofascial Release.

  1. Yoga

Yoga, specifically Hatha Yoga, focuses on meditation, exercise, and breathing, fostering core strength for posture and alignment. While there are benefits to practising Yoga for singers, be cautious of breathing techniques that may conflict with how we breathe when we sing. Explore the benefits of Yoga for singers.

  1. Pilates

Like Yoga, Pilates aims to improve strength and balance, establishing lean muscles and an elongated spine. However, as with Yoga, be cautious of certain breathing techniques that may encourage over-exhalation during singing. Discover the advantages of Pilates for singers.

Now that you have an overview of these six techniques to improve your posture for singing, I encourage you to explore them further and put them into practice. I’ve included external resources for each method to help you get started. And don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below! Let’s learn from each other and grow together to become holistic vocalists. Sing well!

For more about The Whole-Body Approach for better singing, check out this video…

Disclaimer: This blog post was generated by ChatGPT-4, an AI language model, based on Dr Dan’s video script (original work). For a comprehensive understanding of the topic, we suggest watching the original video above.
— TOOLS for SINGERS —
 Ex 1 – Five Note Scale (Ascend & Descend) Free!
SUPER BUNDLE 1+2+3 (Tracks & eManuals) – SAVE $50 $99.95

* FREE 7 Day Vocal Technique Detox
* More Vocal Exercises
* Dr Dan’s Online Singing Course

Share
Tweet
Share
Pin
0 Shares