Lay on back on the floor. Place your hands on your waist with your fingers pointed at your belly button. Take a slow, deep breath and concentrate on your stomach. Feel your stomach expand, followed by your chest expanding. Count to five as you exhale while concentrating on your abs. Repeat the exercise for five to 10 minutes and do it three or four times during the day.
Stand in front of a mirror. Poor posture interferes with deep breathing because it prevents the diaphragm from moving freely. Place your feet comfortably apart. Look at yourself in the mirror as you sing and do breathing exercises. Your posture must be straight and relaxed as you sing.
Place one hand on your abdomen and the other hand on your chest. This exercise is similar to the one from step one but is done in the standing position to work on posture as well as breath control. Slowly inhale. Feel your abdomen rise, followed by your stomach. Place your tongue on your upper mouth to make a hissing noise as you exhale. Time yourself as you exhale. Start with 10 seconds. Gradually increase the time until you are able to exhale for 60 seconds.
Include exercise and relaxation techniques in your practice regimen. Abdominal strength building exercises such as sit-ups and stomach crunches help strengthen and control the diaphragm. The ordinary stress, tensions, and distractions of everyday life are often a hindrance and obstacle to singing because they make our bodies tense, leading to poor posture and a rigid diaphragm. Explore relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation, go for a walk, or establish a ritual that allows you to calm down prior to practicing or performing.