When speaking, many people use clavicular breathing, using their upper chest and shoulders to breathe rather than engaging the diaphragm.
Unlike diaphragmatic breathing, which allows for a deeper and more efficient intake and release of air, clavicular breathing can negatively affect the voice.
When relying on clavicular breathing, the amount of air available for speaking (or vocalization for singers) is limited. That limited breathing can strain on the vocal folds (aka vocal cords) as they try to produce sound with insufficient airflow.
Avoid Damage to Your Voice and Your Health
Also, the muscles surrounding the vocal folds, neck, shoulders, and even the rib cage may become tense and overworked, resulting in muscle fatigue, discomfort, and potential vocal problems.
Clavicular breathing can also make the voice sound weak, strained, or even hoarse. The vocal folds often must exert extra effort to compensate for the lack of air, leading to increased tension and potential damage to the vocal folds. Over time, it can even result in vocal nodules or polyps, which can cause further voice problems, including vocal cord damage, inflammation and temporary or prolonged voice loss.
Doctor Recommended Breathing
Dr. Emily Crawford-Thompson is a licensed clinical psychologist who founded Columbia Psychology Healing Center in Columbia, Missouri. She says she often recommends paying more attention to how we breathe. Dr. Crawford-Thompson says, “The physiological benefits of regular diaphragmatic breathing are well documented and include lower cortisol levels; in other words, more relaxation and less stress.” (Full disclosure: The writer of this article is a client of Dr. Crawford-Thompson and highly recommends her.)
Talk Like a Pro!
This is even more important for people who rely on their voices regularly, such as anchors, reporters, singers or other performers.
Engaging the diaphragm uses the full capacity of the lungs, ensuring adequate and efficient airflow, leading to a more powerful and sustainable voice without unnecessary strain or tension.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use diaphragmatic breathing while speaking:
- Find a comfortable and upright posture: Stand or sit with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and feet firmly on the ground. This allows for optimal airflow and supports the proper engagement of the diaphragm.
- Place your hand on your abdomen: Position one hand on your abdomen, just below your ribcage. This will help you feel the movement of your diaphragm during breathing.
- Take a deep breath in: Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose, directing the breath toward your diaphragm. Focus on expanding your abdomen and feeling it rise as you inhale. Allow your chest and shoulders to remain relaxed during this process.
- Exhale while speaking: As you exhale, release the air steady and controlled through your mouth while speaking. Maintain a steady stream of airflow throughout your speech or sentence. Avoid shallow or forced exhalation; instead, let the breath flow naturally as you speak.
- Maintain a steady rhythm: Aim for a balanced and consistent rhythm of inhalation and exhalation while speaking. Avoid holding your breath or taking quick, shallow breaths. Focus on creating a smooth and uninterrupted airflow.
- Practice breath control: Pay attention to the amount of air you release while speaking. Make sure you have enough air to sustain your voice and maintain clarity and power in your speech. Avoid speaking until your breath is fully depleted; this can lead to strain and tension.
- Incorporate relaxation techniques: It’s essential to keep your muscles relaxed while speaking. Tension in the neck, jaw, and shoulders can interfere with proper breathing and voice production. Practice relaxation exercises and be mindful of any unnecessary muscle tension.
- Warm up your voice: Before engaging in extended speaking or vocal activities, warm up your voice with vocal exercises and gentle stretches. This helps prepare your vocal apparatus and encourages proper breathing and support.
- Seek guidance if needed: If you are unsure about using diaphragmatic breathing effectively while speaking, consider working with a broadcaster with knowledge of diaphragmatic breathing, a vocal coach or even a speech therapist. They can provide personalized guidance, exercises, and feedback to help you develop proper breathing techniques and optimize your voice.
- DO THIS ALL DAY, EVERY DAY! Just like learning a new language, if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.
With consistent application, diaphragmatic breathing can become a natural and beneficial part of your speech habits, supporting a powerful, clear, authoritative and sustainable voice.
