Public Speaking

I have to do a lot of public speaking in my job. Sometimes it is negotiating with a customer or presenting to top management. Depending on the day these situations can make me nervous. I can feel the proverbial choking feeling when I begin to talk. I have found the following method extremely helpful in reducing the anxiety and also eliminating the choking feeling. Breathing technique: Before your speach or meeting or whatever, try the following.

1. Take 3 deep breaths slowly.
2. On the 4th deep breath hold it in for 10 seconds if you can.
3. Start to slow your breathing down. Pay attention to your breathing.
4. In hale fully through your nose.
5. Exhale slowly though your mouth.
6. During the meeting or speech, make sure you take time to pause. Five or 10 seconds without you talking is not awkward. Slowing down really helps.
   
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   Yoga breathing techniques