Master Breath Control for Singing: Diaphragmatic Breathing

Breathing is something we do effortlessly, thousands of times every day. On average, we take between 17,000 and 24,000 breaths without giving it a second thought. It’s the automatic miracle that keeps us alive.

But here’s the thing—you might be breathing wrong.

Don’t worry, though; most people are. Many of us are “shallow breathers,” meaning we only use the upper portion of our lungs, leaving much of our breathing potential untapped. While this may be fine for everyday life, effective breathing for singers requires more depth and control.

Why Deep Breathing Matters for Singing

To sing with power and control, you must engage in diaphragmatic breathing, a technique that helps maximize lung capacity and build solid breath support.

What Is Diaphragmatic Breathing?

Let’s start by understanding your diaphragm…

The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle located beneath your lungs, separating your chest cavity from your abdominal cavity. It’s essential for both inhalation and exhalation. However, most people don’t fully engage their diaphragm when they breathe, relying instead on shallow breaths that fill only the upper lungs.

Here’s how you can test your current breathing style:

1. Take a deep breath.

2. Observe your shoulders—do they rise as you inhale?

If your shoulders lift, you’re likely not using your diaphragm effectively. Proper diaphragmatic breathing involves keeping your shoulders relaxed and allowing your belly to expand as you inhale and contract as you exhale.

The Balloon Visualization

Imagine there’s a balloon inside your stomach:

• Inhale: You’re filling the balloon with air, causing your belly to expand.

• Exhale: Your abdominal muscles gently squeeze the air out, causing your belly to contract.

To practice:

1. Place your hand on your belly, midway between your sternum and belly button.

2. Exhale fully, emptying your lungs.

3. Slowly inhale through your mouth, feeling your belly rise as the “balloon” fills with air.

4. Exhale by gently contracting your abdominal muscles, letting the air flow out steadily.

This technique builds the foundation for improved breath control and breath support, essential for singing.

Common Challenges and Tips

Many beginners find diaphragmatic breathing counterintuitive. It’s common to mistakenly suck in the belly on the inhale and relax it on the exhale. Remember:

• Inhale = Belly expands

• Exhale = Belly contracts

If this feels backward, visualize air flowing like water:

• On the inhale, imagine a waterfall filling your belly.

• On the exhale, picture a geyser pushing air up and out.

How Diaphragmatic Breathing Improves Singing

Mastering diaphragmatic breathing offers several benefits for your singing:

1. Fuller Breaths: You’ll utilize more of your lung capacity, allowing you to sustain longer phrases with fewer interruptions.

2. Stronger Breath Support: By engaging your abdominal muscles, you create a steady, controlled airflow, giving your voice more power and consistency.

3. Improved Control: Shallow chest breathing limits your ability to control airflow and dynamics. Diaphragmatic breathing gives you greater flexibility and precision.

Bonus Exercise: The Book Method

If you’re struggling to engage your diaphragm, try this simple exercise:

1. Lie on your back on a flat surface.

2. Place a heavy book on your belly.

3. Breathe in and out through your mouth, watching the book rise and fall with your breath.

This position makes diaphragmatic breathing easier by utilizing gravity, while the book provides tactile feedback to guide your practice.

Ready to Sing Your Best?

Breathing deeply and effectively is the foundation of vocal excellence. With regular practice, you’ll not only improve your breath control and breath support, but also unlock new levels of power and confidence in your singing.

For professional guidance, personalized voice lessons, and more singing tips, visit us at TransitionsVoiceLab.com. Let’s elevate your vocal journey together!