The Power of Breath: Elevate Your Public Speaking Skills

The best presenters understand the power of their breath and know how to harness it to their advantage when speaking. One of the very first lessons in effective public speaking coaching is learning how to breathe properly, especially for those who suffer from public speaking anxiety. Even if nerves aren’t an issue for you, focusing on your breath remains a crucial aspect of one-on-one coaching.

Breathing is something we naturally do; in fact, you’re doing it right now as you read this article. Thankfully, breathing is an autonomic function of the nervous system; we don’t need to think about it. However, the best presenters consciously consider it, especially when under pressure.

It’s an age-old phenomenon: we often know exactly what to do, yet we still struggle to execute it. For instance, everyone knows the importance of drinking at least eight glasses of water a day. Similarly, every presenter understands that proper breathing is the number one route to reducing nervousness and enhancing performance. Yet, how many of us actually drink enough water daily? And how many speakers invest the time to practice effective breathing before a presentation?

The best presenters take the time to notice their breath and ensure they are hydrated. Why? Because most of the tension and anxiety faced by presenters can be dispelled by the powerful act of mindful breathing.

Here are 7 Reasons Why the Best Presenters Breathe Properly Before Speaking:

– It’s free.

– It reduces anxiety, agitation, and stress.

– You can do it anywhere.

– It only takes a minute.

– It gives you time to think.

– It clears your mind.

– It works – scientifically!

The benefits of proper breathing, especially when feeling uncomfortable, are rooted in science, not myth.

Have you heard of the Vagus nerve?

This long cranial nerve extends from the brain down to the heart, lungs, and other organs, even influencing your tongue and vocal cords. We’re all familiar with the “fight or flight” response, a primal function of our sympathetic nervous system. When we perceive a threat, our body reacts quickly, preparing to either confront the danger or flee from it.

Public speaking can represent a significant threat, both consciously and subconsciously for many people. This is where the Vagus nerve can come to our rescue. Part of the parasympathetic nervous system, it helps calm us down. One of the best methods to stimulate the Vagus nerve and alleviate anxiety is through proper breathing.

Mindful breathing not only helps relieve anxiety but also reconnects you with yourself in the present moment. Being present is exactly where your audience needs you to be.

Here Are 3 Simple Steps the Best Presenters Take When Breathing:

Ask

Sit quietly for a moment and tune in to yourself. Ask, “What’s going on with me right now?” Acknowledge and accept everything you’re experiencing; physical sensations, thoughts, and emotions. Don’t try to change or fight anything; simply recognise and accept each feeling as it is.

Breathe

Take a deep inhalation into your belly, counting slowly to five in your mind. Release the breath slowly while pursing your lips, feeling the air leave your body. Focus on your breathing for ten breaths or more. Experience each breath fully by following it closely: in through your nose, down your throat, into your chest and abdomen. Notice the physical sensations as you inhale and exhale. If your mind wanders (which it likely will), gently draw your attention back to your breath.

Notice

Expand your awareness to your whole body. What sensations are you experiencing right now? Notice the space around you, broadening your awareness to encompass your entire experience. Acknowledge any areas of tension and gently direct your breath into those spaces.

The beauty of taking time to breathe before a presentation is that you can’t get it wrong. The benefits are immense. Focusing on your breath allows you to tune into your mind and body’s rhythm. You become centred, release tension, and gain clarity, enabling you to deliver your message confidently while managing your adrenaline.

Remember, the best presenters take time to breathe.

Go ahead and breathe!

If you’d like to learn more about what the best presenters do:

– Book yourself onto a powerful public speaking course.

– Invest in some really good one to one public speaking coaching.

– Get yourself some excellent presentation training

Image courtesy of Canva.com