When you listen to an incredible singer or speaker there is a connection that goes beyond the mind - it's visceral, emotional, & connected. Our voice is no different. Whether we are speaking or singing the impact or resonance of our voice is largely correlated to our own state of connection and feeling.
Have you ever encountered someone who was trying to sell themselves but came off really inauthentic? My guess is that they spoke quickly and/or 'heady' - as though they were trying to convince you instead of genuinely connecting with you. This state of 'trying' to convince someone often comes off in the way one speaks.
Try it.
Stand in front of a mirror and say the sentence "I am willing to love myself even here"
But say it as though you are thinking it, trying to convince, and in a way that feels like its coming from your head only. (Yes, this will feel weird but trust me it's useful). Repeat three times.
What do you notice? Tension in your head? Jaw? Feelings like annoyance?
Good.
Noticing these sensations will help you recognize what being disconnected feels like. As we become accustom to recognizing these sensations we may catch ourselves in the moment when we have become heady or disconnected in conversation.
The way we 'feel' in our body when we speak affects how others will receive us, understand us, and hear us.
Now try this (in front of the mirror)
Take five slow breaths and as you do so become connected to your legs and pelvis.
Place one hand gently on your belly and one gently on your heart.
Say each word of the sentence as though you are speaking from your belly and through your heart
Speak slowly. Listen and let each word land in your body (I...am... willing... to... love... myself... even... here...)
Repeat 3 times
Now what did you notice?
Next time you are in a conversation, performing, or speaking I invite you to be aware of what you say as well as how you feel it when you say it. When you connect to the feeling (& corresponding sensations) you want to convey you will likely find a greater sense of confidence, authenticity, and in turn greater impact and resonance.
Go Deeper
Take this understanding further in the FREE VOICE YOUR VALUE Program.
Sign up HERE
About the Author
Amy Thiessen is a coach, writer, and musician who focuses on helping others find and express a their voice with resonance. Her unique approach works with the wholistic mechanism of voice utilizing somatic awareness, psychology, mindfulness, spiritual practice, and vocal techniques of toning and song.