When was the last time that you paid attention to your breathing? Did you know that correct breathing is fundamental to physical and mental performance? That includes exercise, playing sports, singing, playing a brass or wood wind instrument, acting on stage, yoga, martial arts, relaxation, meditation and speaking.
The success of your performance of any of these diverse activities start with proper breathing.
You might be thinking, “I’ve been breathing all my life”. I don’t need advice on how to breathe.
Think again.
You’re right, breathing when done naturally is best. As a baby, you learned how to breathe properly. You took deep breaths, filling the diaphragm.
Watch a baby breathing while lying on his or her back, and you’ll notice that the tummy expands while inhaling. The baby fills the diaphragm with air. That’s why they can scream so loud.
As we grow up, many of us develop poor or lazy breathing habits, short breaths and not filling the diaphragm.
Test yourself now.
Stand or sit up straight and place your hands on your waist. Breathe in fully. If you’re doing it right you should be expanding your midriff – making yourself fat as you can.
Hold that for a few seconds then slowly breathe out. Now you’re skinny again. The best cycle is breathe in for 3 to 4 seconds, hold it in for 3 to 4 seconds, then exhale for 3 to 4 seconds. Slow deep breaths.
You can project your voice. Some people claim, “I’m a small person, I can’t speak louder.” Really – remember how that tiny baby can scream. Breathe.
You can pause when you want you instead running out of breath and gasping for air.
You will avoid those moments of dizzy panic. That happens because of a shortest of oxygen to the brain.
The other reason to practise deep breathing is to avoid the fear response. When we’re frightened or nervous, we tend to hold our breath. We freeze up, hold our breath and search for danger or an escape route.
Want to feel more confident for public speaking. Breathe slowly and deeply. By the way, this breathing method works well for meditation and stress relief.
Want to receive valuable presentation tips every week?
Visit www.TorokTips.com
Call George Torok at 905-335-1997