Tips for Promoting Vocal Clarity and a Comfortable Throat

Is your throat uncomfortable from extra kapha or pitta? Do you sing or engage in frequent public speaking that puts extra pressure on your vocal cords? Would you like something to help bring comfort so that nothing stands in the way of your voice?

In Ayurveda, we look at the vocal cords, the organs of speech, as one of five important organs of action (karmendriyas). The vocal cords are given high importance because speech is an instrument by which the mind is able to perform an action. To that end, let us learn how to care for this part of the body so that you can speak your truth with clarity.

1. Try the all-new Throat Soother Herbal Spray! It is always nice to have something handy when your voice is in need or when you want to bring some comfort to this part of the body. The new herbal spray is made with herbs that:
   • Support the immune system by decreasing excess heat in the throat (turmeric)
   • Provide a lubricating coat with the legendary throat-soothers (slippery elm and licorice)
   • Provide comfort while bolstering warmth (ginger and fennel, which will also clear away excess kapha)
   
   You can use this convenient throat spray when your voice needs added support during heavy use (before or after public speaking or singing) or when you just need some comfort if your throat is being burdened with some extra pitta or kapha. Note that this product is in an alcohol-free base of glycerin and soothing organic honey, making it appropriate for any time or by just about anyone (even children above the age of two).
    
2. Use Nasya Oil. The nose is the opening to the pathway to the head and to the lungs (which includes the throat). Five drops in each nostril every day will nourish this pathway.
    
3. Gargle. Gargling with hot water (add a pinch of turmeric and a pinch of mineral salt) is a throat soothing remedy that many Indian mothers give to their children and family. Gargle with this mixture daily until your throat feels better.
    
4. Do oil pulling. While you do not swallow the oil, this practice supports and nourishes all tissues of the mouth and the effects extend to the throat as well! Try the new Daily Swish Pulling Oil.
    
5. Use speech wisely. Speech is a gift to be used with discipline. If you take just a day to not speak at all (a common spiritual practice in India), you will likely notice more energy, more calmness, and a greater sense of being centered. Spiritual teachers talk frequently about how energy and vitality fizzle away without thoughtful speech. In fact, the Mother (disciple of Sri Aurobindo, an Indian philosopher) said in her publication, The Four Austerities and the Four Liberations, “the weaker the mental power, the greater is the need to use speech…one should always control the words one speaks and never allow one’s tongue to be prompted by anger, violence or temper.”
    

We all have a truth to speak and share with the world. Hopefully, this information will help you in your journey towards finding and supporting your clear, comfortable, and healthy voice.