How to speak with proper vocal technique without harming your voice

Generally, when speaking, it is advisable to maintain a steady speaking rate, use diaphragmatic voice production, and avoid throat clearing to prevent vocal strain.

1. Maintain a steady speaking rate

While speaking, one should maintain an even pace, avoiding voices that are too low or too high, which may cause vocal cord damage.

2. Diaphragmatic voice production

Using diaphragmatic breathing for voice production generally helps reduce vocal cord strain. For example, when inhaling while speaking, lift the soft palate, relax the jaw, maintain a combination of chest and abdominal breathing, contract the abdominal muscles when expelling air upward, causing the diaphragm to rise, allowing air to be expelled from the lower abdomen (dan tian), and ensuring a steady airflow through the glottis.

3. Avoid throat clearing

Avoid frequent throat clearing during speech, as the forceful airflow can violently vibrate the vocal cords, leading to vocal cord injury.

In addition, if discomfort in the throat occurs, speaking should be minimized as much as possible. Excessive talking or shouting should be avoided to prevent worsening symptoms and to promote recovery.