Breathing, for a singer, means the regulation of the constant inward and outward exchange of air in the body. Our breathing mechanism, mainly the lungs, is the topic of this month's article. However, this is a very complicated subject, and I am not going to talk all about it in one sitting. Learning to breathe properly for singing takes time and explaining this complex system takes even more time. We shall begin to examine the subject of breathing gradually so that we can fully understand without too much confusion.

Funny, breathing is something we all do. So why then is there so much talk about singers and breathing? Why should there be such a need to explain how to breathe? Shouldn't you just know instinctively? Shouldn't it be automatic? Shouldn't you just do it? Obviously, it isn't that simple.

Breathing is something we all do, but singing is not. Coordinating singing and breathing is a skill which begins with the relaxation of the breathing mechanism and the related muscle groups which allow you to breathe freely. Learning how to relax is the first step in learning how to inhale and exhale air properly and easily. Before you can hope to accomplish a dependable technique of breathing, you must first learn to relax your muscles, especially the upper and lower abdominals and the lower chest muscles, the rib cage and the pelvis.

In order for you to get all the breath your body is capable of inhaling, you must be relaxed enough to inhale fully. The singer must be able to inhale easily and quickly and exhale in a planned, regulated way. SIngers require an above-ordinary supply of air when they are singing. They must be able to sustain a prolonged, regulated exhalation, This must be accomplished involuntarily, with a sense of ease.

To start, we will go back to how you began breathing as an infant and see if somewhere along the way you've lost touch with how you are supposed to be breathing all the time. It is easy to breathe correctly once you relax. A brief moment of correct breathing can be enough of a clue for most people. The body loves to breathe correctly. It feels good! Your body can and will respond to correct techniques almost instantly. Even if you have acquired the most awful forcing, pushing breathing habits, the body will begin to respond with very little coaching most of the time.

You can learn to regulate the constant exchange of air in the body by first sitting and simply breathing. Awareness of your present breathing process is your first step towards improvement. That's right, just sit down a second. Sit still and close your eyes. Put your feet on the floor and your hands on your lap. Make sure that your back is straight and your head is erect. Close your eyes and just breathe.

In and out, again and again; the breath is in constant movement. The air comes in and the body expands to make room for the air. The diaphragm descends, the abdomen gently extends outward and downward to its full state, the oxygen is autmatically inhaled as a result of this movement and then, in a blink, the exhalation has begun. At first you should just allow this to happen. Allow your body to breathe. Feel your body fill with air. Breathe in through your nose for a while to relax yourself. There should be no jerks or sudden movements. It should feel smooth and easy, the motion of the lungs rhythmic and smooth. From this quiet setting you can begin to feel a sense of calm control.

Keep in mind from the beginning that, although we talk about breathing in lengthy terms, breathing in takes but a moment and exhalation can be a moment as well. In a moment you can feel the process of breathing if you take a good slow look at it.

Now, lie on your back. Do not cross your legs. Allow your feet to settle and your legs to relax and lie there as straight as you can. Put your hands on your abdomen, close your eyes and just lie there. Feel your abdomen and observe the movement of your breathing. Put one hand on your chest and see if the chest or the abdomen feels freer. Try to get the abdomen to be the area with the most movement and release. Pretend that you are inhaling air through your chest and into your abdomen and pelvis. Allow your lower body to expand as you lie there.

Breathe in and out easily. Close your eyes. Think about anything that makes you comfortable. Concentrate on how your body feels when it is breathing. Notice your breathing. Do this anytime you are lying down. do it anytime you are sitting down as well.

If you can begin to breathe like this on a regular basis, then you can create the proper environment that your body needs to begin to master the skill of breathing for singing. If you do this for a few days, within very short time you will begin to observe the change in feeling in your lower torso.

This may not sound like much to start with but you will be surprised how much this little bit will help. Even a few moments of practice when you are about to go to sleep will add to your understanding of breathing for singing. Practice everyday for a few minutes in the morning and in the evening. You will be suprised how relaxed you will feel, and you will marvel at how quickly your breath will feel expanding.

As you begin to observe that your breath can be a regular, even flow of air, you will begin to increase your capacity for inhalation and exhalation. Breathe deeply and be aware of what you are doing while you are breathing. Take you time and fill your lungs fully. You will see that your lung capacity will be improving. Then you are on your way towards increased ability to make use of this increased capacity.

But first, you must begin to get in touch with how your own particular body breathes now. So, whenever you are lying down or sitting down, practice breathing for a few moments. And do it daily; do it any chance you get any time you think of it. There is much more to it but this is an excellent start. See you next month.