October 30th, 2017

Carole's Story

 It all started with a panic attack that Carole knew she had to do something quickly to regain control of her breathing. She tried to breathe in but nothing, no air, no relief, nothing, like holding your breath. But how long could she hold it before she passed out? What could she do right this second! Helpless, frantic, and desperate Carole thrust her belly with energy so it ballooned then automatically released it. Mechanically she repeated the physical push again, then again, and again, and once more to where it continued naturally without her focus. A calmness released the pain in the back of her neck and her tight throat while silently her thoughts streamed gratitude to the universe for saving her life.

Hmmn! So, it’s true what her drama coach taught her, diaphragmatic breathing will calm you and energize you for life, never mind what it does to you as a speaker to project your voice on stage for those performances.

This story is one of many that I share in my book, “Breathe…Just Steps to Breathtaking Speeches” to illustrate the transformation my clients move into by allowing their diaphragmatic breathing to become their natural breathing. Initially, there is a voice concern or a desire to infuse variety of expression in their presentations and speeches, or simply to overcome fear and build confidence. Convinced after experimentation, exercises galore, and the discovery, little by little, do I see their body, voice, and mind take ownership of their unique voice power. Then we all celebrate!

You may not be able to meet with me personally, but my wish is that if you want to take care of your voice or your panic attacks, then the answer lies in your core breathing source as outlined in my book.
The diaphragm is at the base of your ribs and propels more air into your lungs then exits through your vocal folds as your speech. 

I deliberately organized my book with exercises to help you in the voice production preparation stage to then lead to creating vocal presence and range of tone in the second part of your training. Finally, in the performance stage, you learn how to put it all together to affect your listeners emotion and motivation and engagement to really connect with you and your message. Applause or a movement will follow your transition into a wonderful speaker.

What are your thoughts on your career, your life balance, and your future when it comes to what role your voice plays in your drama now and as you age? Try one of my exercises to see where your potential can grow, and read about another client who may have a story that connects with you.

Cheers, here’s to Keeping Voice Fit!

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.Brenda Smith, Founder of Voice Power Training Services and Author, is a personal speech coach who brings her expertise and experience as a lifelong drama director and teacher to guide your transformation into becoming a presenter with vocal power and presence: http://www.VoicePowerTraining.com
 
Brenda’s book: “Breathe…Just Steps to Breathtaking Speeches” a complete easy to-follow system to achieving a powerful voice and presence available on Amazon, and all other online book outlets.
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