The Relaxati

on Process

Relaxationrefers to the relative degrees of sustained or

partial contraction in the muscles. It is the partial or complete absence of tension. In speech, the

muscles that should be relaxed are those that are involved directly and indirectly.

Relaxation for speaking does not imply complete rest or loosening up all

throughout, but at the outset of the training, the student is advised to relax as completely as possible in preparation for

speaking activity.

Relaxation plays a vital role in voice production because it lays the

foundation for a good voice. If the muscles are trained to relax, the speech mechanisms would move with precise

timing, which is important for good voice production and clear articulation.

Relaxation

Techniques

Breathe Prepare Well Be confident Listening to relaxing music Meditation Progressive muscle relaxation

Relaxing Breathing Exercises

These are simple exercises that require no equipment and can be done anywhere, anytime you feel stressed

(like before speaking in public).

Exercise 1.

Place the tip of your tongue against the ridge of tissue just behind your upper

front teeth, and keep it there through the entire exercise.

Exercise 2.

Exhale completely through your mouth,

making a whoosh sound.

EXERCISE 3.

Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count

of four.

EXERCISE 4.

Hold your breath for a count of seven.

EXERCISE 5.

Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound, to a count of

eight. This is one breath. Now inhale again and repeat the cycle three more times, for a

total of four breaths.

By :

Chastity Gail P. Montoya

Karen Jean P. Zamora