Surviving The Winter As A Theatre Kid

1. Make The Right Food Choices

This may seem obvious, but some people don't seem to understand that eating healthy really does help prevent you from getting sick.

Drink Lots of Water: You need to drink water like it's your job. You should drink about eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.

Emergen-C: This stuff is the bomb and helps boost your immune system. It comes in all sorts of flavors... Not all of the flavors taste good, but you have lots of choices!

Cut Out The Junk Food: Eat healthier meals. Keep chips, cookies, and candy to a minimum. Trade out your unhealthy choices for snacks like apples, bluberries, and Strawberries.

2. Get Lots Of Sleep

When it comes to auditions, rehearsals, and shows we all want to give our best performance. It is harder for our bodies to perform to the best of their ability when we are sleepy. As much as we love to sleep in, it is actually best for our bodies to go to sleep and wake up at around the same time every day. Try to stay away from pulling all nighters to watch Netflix, especially if you are in the rehearsal process, tech week, or a show.

3. WASH YOUR HANDS

Winter is a time for colds and germs. Wash your hands often, use hand sanitizer, and be aware of who you are hanging around that may be sick.

4. Vicks Personal Steam Inhaler

This can be a life saver for performers.

The steamer works to relieve swelling, dryness, and nasal congestion. It is much safer than the pot and towel technique and is easily portable.

Where Can I Buy One?:

- CVS

- Walgreens

- Target

- Walmart

5. Wear a scarf around your neck when you go outside

Wearing a scarf around your neck when you are outside will also help keep you from getting sick. Also, do not go outside without wearing a coat.

6. Take Time Off

If you're doing a vocally demanding show, or you are in a long running show, make sure you use your time off to rest your voice. Do not push it. Be aware of your vocal abilities and if something feels uncomfortable, you should most likely take a break.

7. Tea, Tea, Tea

Drink lots of tea and honey. Your honey should be fresh, local honey. One tea that singers use that helps a lot is Throat Coat Tea. Some people love it, some people hate it. You decide what you think:

Available for purchase at:

-CVS

- Target

- Walgreens

- Walmart

8. Sleeping With A Humidifier If you are a serious singer, sleeping with a humidifier is necessary, especially during the dry winter months. It allows moisture to enter through the nose or the mouth while you are sleeping.

9. Cough Drops

Here are some cough drop reccomendations from Broadway performers!

On top of these tips, listen to your body. If you're singing and something doesn't feel right, listen to your voice and take a break. Know your body and know your limits.

Stay healthy!