Some habits can point to possible vocal stress. For example, the “chin lift” and the “elbow-arm pump” can indicate lack of supportive breath for effective and healthy voice flow. If you find you push forward or lift with your chin, or your arm becomes involved in pumping out the ends of your phrases, you might be pushing or straining, and it can make your voice sound tight or shrill.
Be sure you are getting enough breath. Remember to exhale and let the breath drop back in – low in your lungs – to allow for a full breath and then let the words ride on your next exhale. At the end of your phrase or text chunk, relax and let the next breath rush in ready for the following thought to be shared.
