Speech giving is a nerve-racking experience for many people. Even if public speaking is not an interest of yours, you may find yourself speaking in front of a group of people for several different reasons. You might be asked to give a toast at the wedding as the best man, demonstrate a new program at work or deliver a eulogy at a funeral. Breathing exercises can help calm you down and allow you to deliver your speech more eloquently.
Step 1
Stand up, and straighten your spinal cord for correct posture. Center your body over your feet and pull back your shoulder blades, suggests Katherine Axtell at Whitman College. Proper posture will enable your lungs to hold more air.
Step 2
Hold your head in a comfortable position to relax the mouth and throat. Avoid straining your neck or tilting it up or down for optimal air flow.
Step 3
Breathe in slowly through your nose while you count to 4. Place your hands on your stomach, so you can feel the air entering your body as your diaphragm rises.
Step 4
Breathe out slowly as you count to 4. Continue to feel your stomach. You should feel your diaphragm expanding, according to the Write Out Loud website.
Step 5
Continue to inhale and exhale for 4 counts. Concentrate on keeping your body relaxed.
Step 6
Increase the amount of time you inhale and exhale. For example, instead of 4 counts, try counting to 5. After you feel comfortable, you can move onto 6, and all the way up to about 8.
Step 7
Practice your speech while breathing calmly and evenly. While you are waiting to give your speech, practice this exercise to calm yourself down.
