Easy Mistakes to Avoid

A cool-down only helps if you keep it gentle. The usual slip-ups:

• Pushing for volume — wind-down sounds should be soft and effortless, never projected. Loud humming just adds more strain.
• Forcing your range — drift down to your lowest easy note, not the lowest you can grind out.
• Clearing your throat — a hard "ahem" slams the folds together. Sip water or swallow instead.

You'll know it's working when your throat feels looser, your voice sits lower and softer, and the next morning sounds clearer than after the days you skipped it.