Surviving The Winter as Theatre Kid

As an actor, I know that getting sick during a show, before an audition, or really ANY TIME is an actor's worst nightmare. Unfortunately there aren't many things you can do once you're already sick, but there are a lot of tips and tricks that will help you from getting a sick in the first place.

1. Eat Healthy!
This may seems 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 and really does help.
Cut Out The Junk Food: Eat healthier meals. Keep chips, cookies, and candy to a minimum.
Gargling Salt Water:  This will help disinfect the mouth and throat.

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 show week.

3. WASH YOUR HANDS
WINTER IS A TIME FOR GERMS. WASH YOUR HANDS AND USE YOUR HAND SANITIZER. THAT IS ALL.

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. Scarves

Keep your neck and chest warm. Don't go outside without a coat or a jacket.











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.

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
• Walgreens
• Walmart
• Target

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

9.  Cough Drops 

10.  What To Avoid Before Singing

• Ice cold water. Your water should be room temperature.
• Soda
• Dairy
• Juices
• Smoking
• Alcohol