Diaphragmatic breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing is a fundamental technique in the field of public speaking and verbal expression. Proper use of this breathing technique allows us to have optimal control over our voice, improve projection and volume, and convey confidence and authority when speaking in public. In this session, we will explore in detail the importance of diaphragmatic breathing and provide practical techniques and exercises to master it.

What is diaphragmatic breathing?

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as abdominal breathing or deep breathing, is a type of breathing that involves the diaphragm, a muscle located below the lungs. Instead of shallow breathing, as occurs in thoracic breathing, diaphragmatic breathing involves a deep inhalation that expands the abdomen and allows air to completely fill the lungs.

Diaphragmatic breathing has numerous benefits for public speaking and verbal expression. By using this breathing technique, we achieve the following:

• Improved lung capacity: Diaphragmatic breathing allows for greater inhalation and exhalation of air, which increases lung capacity and improves oxygenation of the body.
• Voice control: By using the diaphragm as the main respiratory muscle, we can better control the flow of air and regulate the production of sound, which allows us to have more precise control over our voice when speaking.
• Voice projection: Diaphragmatic breathing helps to project the voice effectively, allowing the sound to reach farther without forcing the throat or larynx.
• Relaxation and stress reduction: By practicing diaphragmatic breathing, we also promote relaxation and stress reduction, as this technique is associated with a relaxation response of the nervous system.

How to practice diaphragmatic breathing?

To practice diaphragmatic breathing, follow these steps:

• Find a comfortable position: sit or stand with your back straight and shoulders relaxed. You can rest your hands on your abdomen to feel it expand and contract during breathing.

• Breathe through your nose: Inhaling slowly through your nose, bring the air into your abdomen. You should feel it expand outward as you inhale.

• Exhale slowly: Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling the abdomen contract gently.

• Practice regularly: Spend a few minutes each day practicing diaphragmatic breathing to familiarize yourself with this technique and make it part of your natural breathing pattern.

In addition to practicing diaphragmatic breathing itself, there are specific exercises that can help you strengthen this type of breathing:

• Balloon inflation exercise: take a balloon and fill it with air slowly, focusing on using diaphragmatic breathing to inflate it. This will help you develop control and strength in your breathing muscles.

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