All crazy about Vocal Coaches: When singing supports mind–body wellbeing

Vox sana in corpore sano. In our voice, and in the correct use of breathing, we may find one of the keys to “eternal youth”. A recent study by Finnish scientists at the University of Helsinki showed that singing, mindful breathing, and vocal management techniques are all fundamental for mind–body wellbeing. They are important to train at any age, and especially in later life, to counter the natural degenerative processes of the body.

This is why vocal coaches are increasingly in demand, even among athletes, as part of a holistic wellbeing journey that includes not only physical aspects, but also the emotional and psychological dimensions of the person.

Nessi Gomes, a talented Anglo-Portuguese singer–songwriter, has made this goal her personal mission, and her “therapeutic” singing video tutorials on the web, aimed especially at women, have gone viral.

In Italy, Sarah Biacchi – mezzo-soprano, multi-vocalist, actress and vocal trainer for performing arts professionals – recently launched the Save Your Breath method, based on the concept that the voice is life itself, as it is the tool we use most. In an age of video conferences and online presentations, it often becomes our main calling card. The voice is a primary artistic and professional instrument, essential not only for actors and singers, but also for those who rely on it for many hours every day, such as teachers, sales agents, or call-centre operators.

In the Save Your Breath method, breathing is trained through an innovative technology called Active Electro-Myostimulation (EMS). By wearing a special vest connected via computer to controlled stimulation of the deep muscular fascia by a trained operator, it is possible in just 24 minutes to enhance costo-diaphragmatic breathing up to maximum vocal performance. The method can be applied to all singing and acting techniques, but is also recommended for anyone who simply wishes to take care of themselves by rediscovering their vocal potential. Each session is individual and personalised.

By combining work on posture, muscles, breathing, and flexibility, the flow of one’s inner energy is harmonised, helping to release areas of the body that are blocked for various reasons – physical, postural, or psychosomatic. This kind of training also contributes to weight loss, always within the framework of a healthy diet and balanced lifestyle. The aim is to achieve an “active” harmony that distributes the alignment of the breath along the entire spine and, as a result, helps address and resolve respiratory and joint issues.

Through this new method, you train yourself to manage your breath, use your voice to its fullest, and at the same time feel well, stay in shape, reshape your silhouette, and tone the muscular system. These are essential practices, whatever type of activity you carry out – from the most dynamic and athletic to the most static and sedentary.

Voice training is becoming increasingly popular on social networks, and on major online platforms you can now follow workshops where guided breathing and “therapeutic” singing are paired with specific musical soundscapes. American gospel and jazz singer Cheryl Porter, for example, is hugely popular on TikTok, followed by users all over the world for her vocal-coaching videos. Not to mention the InBorn Voice method (also available as an app), with its many fun exercises that – without traditional vocalises – can correct the voice, change one’s intonation, and help rediscover the authentic tone that belongs to each person.

Maria Serena Patriarca