Last week, we introduced the term diaphragmatic breathing. Today we want to give you some more information about this so that you will be able to improve your breath control by using this method of breathing. So what is diaphragmatic breathing?? Diaphragmatic breathing is also known as abdominal breathing. It is done by contracting the diaphragm, a muscle situated below the lungs, Air enters the lungs and the stomach expands on inhalation (breathing in). Diaphragmatic breathing is thought to have significant health benefits, it aids relaxation and supports greater breath control and so can improve voice quality and volume. It can also support improved articulation, emphasis in words and rhythm of speech. Your lungs are like a pair of bellows that pump air out through your voice box (larynx). This makes your vocal cords vibrate to produce voice. Diaphragmatic breathing is supported by the abdominal muscles and the diaphragm. When breathing correctly, the shoulders should not be tense or raised and the upper chest should not move. How do I do it? * Sit in a quiet room and make yourself as relaxed as possible. * Sitting in front of a mirror is useful so that you can concentrate on what is happening with your body. * Place your hands on your stomach/tummy. * Breathe in through your nose to the count of 3, Take a deep relaxed breath and observe what happens with your body. *Breathe out gently through your mouth. Does your chest expand? Do your shoulders move? Does your tummy/stomach expand? When you are breathing correctly, you should not notice any movement in your shoulders or chest and should only feel your stomach moving out/expanding as you breathe in. Learning to breathe in this way can be a challenge especially if it is not your natural breathing pattern. It can take time. Practice this daily until you are happy that you can do it correctly. Dont forget to let us know how it goes! We are also always here if you need any further advice. and relax............ :-)
Posted on: Mon, 17 Mar 2014 17:21:35 +0000
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