Step-by-step Professional Video Preparation Series: How to Improve Communication Through Breath

How to Improve Communication Through Breath

Breathing is often overlooked when we talk, move, and express, because it is the most inherently natural mode of communication we have. In actuality, the breath plays a vital role in how we express ourselves and provides the conditions and dynamics to carry out any thought or action.

Whether you’re speaking on camera, giving a public presentation, or even engaging in everyday conversations, breath awareness can help you shape the outcome of your messaging and your body language, which changes the experience for the speaker and the listener. In this blog, we’ll also explore why breath awareness is powerful in upgrading vocal quality and reducing anxiety, both at work and at home.

Why Breath Matters in Communication

Breathing is directly connected to our voice, tone, and ability to articulate thoughts clearly. When we are nervous, we tend to take shallow, rapid breaths, which can make our voice shaky and affect our ability to think clearly. On the other hand, breath’s capabilities can help us choose the speed and dynamic at which we want to communicate. There is a whole range of speeds, colors, and intentions of breath to choose from!

The Connection Between Breath and Voice Quality

The voice is powered by air moving through the vocal cords. Often, speakers wish to have more volume and power from the voice, but presentational impact can be achieved through different choices of breath expression as well. The first main goal is to remember to breathe. Once we notice the breath, we can start to make choices with it – longer pauses, quicker or slower breaths, longer sentences, more air vs. less air. Over time, this awareness will become more natural and you can rely on your speaking voice to deliver powerful messages.

Breath and Nervousness

When we are stressed, our body activates the fight-or-flight response, causing shallow breathing and increased heart rate. This can make us feel out of breath while speaking, leading to awkward pauses or rushed speech. Practicing breath awareness before speaking engagements can calm the nervous system and create a sense of steadiness.

Pacing and Speech Rhythm

Once we are aware of our breath, we can start to make choices, or play! We all fall into the trap of speaking too quickly, either to give the impression to sound “natural” or when we are anxious. This often makes it harder for the audience to follow. Strategic pauses for breathing allow listeners to absorb information while giving the speaker a chance to refocus and maintain composure. Later on, tempo and dynamics can be added to help your messaging.

Breathing for On-Camera Speaking

Speaking on camera adds another layer of pressure since the audience is watching for visual as well as vocal cues. Don’t forget that cameras are tools to see things closely, so small breath and physical gestures read largely. Smaller breaths can be relaxing and engaging to watch, while preventing physical tension from showing on screen.

How to Breathe for On-Camera Presence

• Remember to Breath: Make sure you take the time to breathe before each sentence, or to end a thought. The timing feels exaggerated to us, but not to the listeners who are hearing your message for the first time.
• Slow Exhales: Exhaling slowly while speaking keeps your tone controlled and prevents rushing through words. Sometimes enjoying the warm air temperature on an exhale can remind us to enjoy what we are saying and slow down.
• Posture Awareness: Sitting or standing tall opens the lungs and allows for the breath to feel more confident.

Breathing for Public Speaking

When speaking to a live audience requires more vocal projection, clarity, and steady pacing than on camera. Public speaking requires strong breath support to sustain volume and avoid vocal strain. Larger, slower sips of air, even inhaling through your nose, can prepare the body to support larger sounds. 

How Breath Enhances Public Speaking

• Projection: Taking full breaths before speaking helps maintain a strong voice without forcing volume, reducing the risk of straining vocal cords. Make sure to use or empty the air you have left at the end of a sentence in order not to “stack” your larynx (or over oxygenate yourself).
• Controlled Pauses: Deliberate breaths between sentences create natural pauses that enhance emphasis and comprehension. This also prevents “over breathing” which leads to hyperventilation.
• Confidence and Calmness: Deep breathing before stepping on stage reduces anxiety and grounds you in the moment, helping you connect with the audience.

Conclusion

Whether breath is a personal daily practice, or one needed for professional events, breath awareness is a huge resource that is right at our finger tips. Remember, beyond breath’s details of expression and intention, the breath is a reset button if you feel overwhelmed by speaking in any situation.  

Want to improve your on-camera or public speaking presence? DMV productions specializes in coaching speakers and creating engaging video content. Contact us today to elevate your communication skills!