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Visually conscious people spend hours at the gym to keep their bodies in shape so that they look good, but singers, actors and RJs (radio jockeys) need to work out their voices to sound good, says Noel Keymer in Everything you Wanted to Know about Radio Jockeying... but didn’t know whom to ask (www.magnamags.com).

Your voice is your ambassador to the outside world, it portrays your personality and emotions, the author reminds. “People make assessments about you based on your voice, so it is very important when you’re speaking or singing, to think about what people are really hearing.”

His voice prescription has nine tips, beginning with the advice to drink water so that your body is well hydrated, and to avoid alcohol, smoking, and caffeine.

“Your vocal cords vibrate very fast, and having a proper water balance helps keep them lubricated.” Hydration-conscious snacks may include apples, pears, watermelons, peaches, grapes, plums and so on.

Allow yourself several ‘vocal naps’ every day, especially during periods of extended use, Keymer instructs. “For instance, RJs should avoid speaking during the breaks between shows, and instead find quiet ways to spend the time, rather than talking in a noisy room with colleagues.”

Clearing the throat may clearly seem to be a common habit but don’t do that too often, because it’s like slamming your vocal cords together, says Keymer. Try a sip of water or swallow to quench the urge to clear, he suggests.

“If you feel like you have to clear your throat a lot, get checked by a doctor for such things as acid reflux disease, or allergy and sinus conditions.”

Sound messages.

D. MURALI

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