When you begin preparing for a presentation, the last thing you probably consider is breathing. Breathing is one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of public speaking. Breathing is not only important for life, but also for effective communication. How you breathe can impact your physical, mental, and emotional state, as well as your voice and speech. Here we will explore the importance of breathing and how it impacts your success as a speaker.
1. Managing Nerves and Anxiety
For many people, the idea of presenting in front of an audience causes a great deal of stress and anxiety. When you are anxious, your breathing tends to become shallow, rapid, and irregular, which can further exacerbate your stress level and lead to feelings of panic and nervousness. This can also cause your voice to be shaky when you speak. On the other hand, deep, slow breathing can help you calm your nerves, reduce anxiety, and feel a sense of balance. Deep breathing also releases oxygen to the brain that can improve overall focus and confidence.
2. Regulate Your Voice
In addition to relieving stress and anxiety, breathing can also help presenters regulate their pace, volume, and tone of voice. Deep breathing allows speakers to control the flow of their speech and maintain a steady rhythm. It also allows them to project their voice more effectively. Slow and steady breathing prevents presenters from speaking too fast, allowing them to articulate their words more clearly.
3. Maintaining Energy and Stamina
Speaking in front of an audience can be physically and mentally exhausting but proper breathing can help presenters sustain their energy and stamina throughout their presentations. When you take deep breaths, you increase your oxygen flow which boosts energy levels and prevents fatigue and vocal strain.
4. Appear More Confident
In addition to the physical benefits of breathing, it also helps presenters convey confidence and composure. Taking deep and deliberate breaths allows speakers to purposefully pause, demonstrating poise and confidence to the audience. This can help presenters become more dominant speakers with a powerful presence.