Voice Tips

Speak Up! Presence Toolkit 1: Calming the Nerves

It’s normal to feel a little nervous before speaking in front of a group. Nerves can make your heart beat faster, your breath shallow, your palms sweat. Know those feelings?

Here’s a great exercise to do (in private) before you speak. It not only calms your mind but expands your lungs giving your voice more power and energy. With a relaxed and strong voice, your delivery will be brilliant. Here’s what to do:

1. Stand with your hands by your side. Breathe in through your mouth and raise your hands above your head, in time with your breath.

2. Exhale making an ‘SSSS’ sound through your teeth as you lower your hands in time with your breath.

3. Rest with your hands by your side.

4. Repeat 5-6 times.

If you run out of air before your hands are fully down, don’t worry, just keep doing it. Your lungs will slowly expand. Check out how you feel. More relaxed and energised now?

Speak Up! Helping good speakers become great speakers.