The position

Posture is a fundamental aspect of public speaking. The way we position ourselves and stand upright during a presentation or speech can have a significant impact on our communication and how we are perceived by the audience. In this session, we will explore the importance of maintaining good posture during public speaking and provide practical tips on how to achieve it.

Importance of posture in public speaking: Proper posture is essential to convey confidence, authority and credibility to the audience. A good posture helps us to project an image of confidence and mastery of the topic we are addressing. In addition, proper posture allows us to breathe more effectively, which influences the quality of our voice and our ability to maintain control and clarity when speaking.

Good posture is not only limited to keeping the back straight, but involves proper alignment of the entire body. This includes the position of the shoulders, neck, head and feet. A balanced, upright posture helps us project an image of confidence and energy, and allows us to use our gestures and facial expressions effectively to complement our speech.

Key elements of good posture:

• Straight Back: Keeping the spine erect and aligned is critical. Avoid slouching or slouching during the presentation. Imagining holding an invisible rope that pulls gently upward from the top of the head can help keep the back straight and aligned.
• Relaxed shoulders: Avoid shrugging your shoulders or tensing them excessively. Keep them relaxed and down, away from the ears. This allows for better air circulation and a more open posture.
• Neck and head aligned: Keep the neck in an upright position, without tilting the head forward or backward. The gaze should be directed straight ahead, maintaining eye contact with the audience. Avoid looking down or looking away constantly.
• Firm feet: Distribute body weight evenly between both feet. Keep your feet slightly apart, aligned with your shoulders. This provides stability and allows for more fluid movements during the presentation.

Benefits of maintaining good posture:

• Projection of confidence: Correct posture conveys security and confidence to the audience. It helps establish a stronger connection and generate a positive impact on listeners.
• Proper breathing: Proper posture facilitates deep, controlled breathing. This directly influences the quality of our voice, allowing for better projection and modulation.
• Body language control: Correct posture helps us to effectively use our gestures, facial expressions and body movements to emphasize key points and maintain the audience's interest.
• Preventing stress and injury: Maintaining good posture during public speaking helps prevent back, neck and shoulder pain, as well as injuries related to poor body alignment.

Tips for maintaining good posture during public speaking:

• Practice posture: perform body awareness exercises and practice maintaining good posture in different situations. This helps us to become familiar with the sensation and internalize it as part of our oral expression.
• Record yourself and receive feedback: Recording our presentations and analyzing our posture allows us to identify areas for improvement and correct possible deviations or bad postural habits.
• Stretching and strengthening exercises: Performing muscle stretching and strengthening exercises, especially focused on the back, shoulders and neck, can contribute to m