I was so thrilled to see the vocal and breathing mechanism in 3D at 'Bodies The Exhibit' while in Las Vegas! The first principle for great singing in my 'Seven Principles for An Integrated Voice' booklet is all about BREATHING correctly for proper support while singing or speaking.
So I was really excited to see the diaphragm in all its glory, and was surprised to see that it wasn't just a thin strip of muscle, but a huge muscle shelf that separates the thoracic cavity ( lungs and heart) from the abdominopelvic cavity (liver, stomach, intestines, etc.). The diaphragm is King!!
I have always advocated maintaining a soft belly so that the diaphragm can drop down (in its relaxed state it's shaped like a dome), allowing more air into the lungs. To actually see this giant muscle makes it so clear to me that what I teach has complete credence! I tell my students to think of the diaphragm much like a trampoline or strong platform that supports the tone, giving it strength and volume. When you actually see that it physically mirrors this image, that it is a muscle shelf that is designed for SUPPORT, it's incredibly exciting and gratifying!
When you breathe, your diaphragm area should expand. This is a hard concept for lots of singers to get, but you need to physically allow the diaphragm to drop and expand. You never want to 'push' the diaphragm or abdominals out, this creates tension, and with The Integrated Voice method, you don't want tension, anywhere!
Now that I've seen it (in the flesh, so to speak), I fully understand, and better realize, how to enlighten my clients about how to envision their breathing mechanism. I'm reminded again, it's all about the diaphragm! Not a lowly strip of tissue that supports the lungs and heart, but the King of muscles that stretches and expands to give you the glorious feeling of security in supporting your tone.
So honor your incredible diaphragm! By using the breathing mechanism correctly, you'll discover the miracle of great vocal support that will allow you to trust your voice, giving you the strength and confidence to be a great singer and dynamic speaker.
All hail the mighty diaphragm!!
If you'd like to know more about my Integrated Voice Method, see my article "My Story" http://www.vivalavoice.com
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