The power of breathing before you speak
The Power of Breathing Before You Speak: A Guide to Managing Stage Fright
Stage fright can derail even the most seasoned professional speakers. You step up to the podium, and suddenly, your heart rate spikes, stress surges through your body, and you’re trapped in a fight-or-flight response. This feeling can be overwhelming, and ignoring it often leads to shaky performances. Your voice wavers, your focus scatters, and instead of commanding the stage, you find yourself retreating from it. For speakers, failing to manage stage fright means risking a genuine connection with the audience.
So, what’s the solution? It’s surprisingly simple: controlled breathing.
Controlled breathing is a proven, science-backed method to regain composure and take charge of your body’s natural stress response. Here’s how you can do it:
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Find a moment to pause. Close your eyes if it helps you focus inward.
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Take a deep breath in. Fill your lungs, allowing your chest and belly to expand.
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Exhale slowly. Let the breath flow out, releasing tension as you do.
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Repeat this process three times.
As you follow these steps, you’ll feel your heart rate begin to slow. A sense of calm will return, and your mind will refocus, allowing you to shift from nervous energy to a poised stage presence.
Controlled breathing can transform how you approach your next speaking engagement. By embracing this simple technique, you can keep stage fright in check, allowing you to step up confidently and make a lasting impact on your audience.
