 Since our first edition of The Public Speaking Wire we've started a blog by the same name. We hope you'll visit it for the most up-to-date postings, and that you'll add your comments.
One of the best ways to calm jittery pre-speech nerves is with meditation techniques and breathing exercises. You'll find an easy breathing exercise and information on meditation below. We also have a quick hint to help your speaking, especially over the phone.
In the right-hand column you'll find our short, fun quiz on best and worst speakers, and also dates for our winter and spring sessions at New York's 92nd Street Y.
Speaking of classes, we're increasing the number of private coaching students who realize the benefit of one-on-one training. Feel free to contact me for any of your public speaking needs; and if you have a colleague/friend who is interested, we also do semi-private and small group coaching.
I hope you enjoy this issue and welcome your feedback.
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| Meditate to Concentrate |
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People often complain that they lose focus and concentration when they're nervous. One way to overcome this is by meditation (not medication, as some would like to believe). A while back the Harvard Health Beat carried an article on "Mindfulness meditation." It was described as sitting (or lying down) quietly for 20 or 30 minutes, once or twice a day.
You focus on your breathing, which allows the mind and body to let go of tensions and concerns. In this process , sensations, thoughts, and emotions will inevitably arise that may pull attention away from concentrating on breathing. Let these distractions be; don't attempt to suppress them. Continue to concentrate on your breathing and be aware of your breath gradually slowing down.
Doing this practice regularly can lead to a sense of calmness and focus that will help you become a better presenter and speaker.
To learn more visit www.publicspeaking4u.com.
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Quick Tip |
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Always pause and slow down when giving a phone number, an email or a street address so the listener has enough time to write the information down. This is especially important when leaving phone messages. |
| Breathing Exercise |
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Have you ever seen a cat or other animal yawn and stretch? They often do this when waking up to prepare their bodies for the day ahead. Likewise, yawning and stretching can help prepare you for better speech delivery.
Here is a quick and simple, but effective breathing exercise.
Stand with your feet facing forward, at hip's width. In slow motion open your mouth wide, take a big yawn and a good stretch.Yawning helps you relax in several ways:
- It frees your jaw from tension,
- Extends your upper palate which helps you produce a better sound,
- Opens your oral cavities for freer breathing
Stretching gets rid of the kinks and helps "wake up your body."
The is the first step in what I like to call "The Power Stance," a posture we practice in my public speaking classes. | |
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| Classes |
Our winter 2010 public speaking course at the 92nd Street Y begins Wednesday, February 17. For private group classes and individual coaching sessions, contact us by clicking here. |
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Techniques for Effective Public Speaking |
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Are you the best speaker that you can be?
Your voice and personality are two of your most important tools. Did you know that how you deliver your message -- and how you sound -- can be even more important than the message itself?
Our "Techniques for Effective Public Speaking" will help you discover and unlock the potential within you. To learn more visit our website at www.publicspeaking4u.com.
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Best & Worst: Take the Survey
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Tired of being assaulted by nasal, speed-talking TV or radio motor mouths you can barely understand? Tell us who is the worst -- and best -- commentator or personality on TV or radio. Take the survey here.
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Stay Tuned
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Do you have a story or tip you would like to share, or a question to ask? E-mail us at publicspeaking4u@aol.com, and we'll publish it. |
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About Us
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Kundell Communications provides performance-based training in public speaking and presentations. Our goal is to help speakers of all levels go from fear to fun and achieve success!!
Linda Kundell, founder of "Techniques for Effective Public Speaking," is a public speaking coach, public relations executive and classically-trained singer who believes that each of us has the potential to be a good speaker. Our program uses performing skills to help speakers develop and enhance their own personal style.
We take you from fear to fun! | |
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@Speakingsuccess