I've heard many times that public speaking is the biggest fear most people have. This can be true for some in terms of acting and/or singing, as well. Regardless of what it is you fear most there is one way to calm those frazzled nerves - Breathe!!!
You say, Ridiculous! I can breathe in my sleep! Well...yes, you can, however, during times of stress we have a tendency to hold our breath or do the 'shallow breathe freeze' without being conscious of it. This then leads to muscle tension, crazy-insecure thoughts zipping through our minds and the fear that we may black out at any moment.
So, if you find yourself in front of the congregation because your worship/drama leader thought you'd be perrr-fect for a particular role in the church sketch, the most powerful thing you can do is to remind yourself to inhale (deeply) and exhale (slowly). Expand those lungs! This will get blood flowing, calm your nervous system and bring clarity to your mind.
And, please make a note not to initially start this exercise when you're just about to begin performing the role onstage before a live audience [wink]. START as soon as you are given the role, BEFORE rehearsals begin. Make this a part of the PROCESS, not the last resort. Practice the art of breathing.
The same goes for prayer. Pray for God's spirit to guide you through this creative process when you first get the role, not at the last minute (Help, God! Help, God! Eek!) when you find the stage lights beaming down on you with all eyes staring and waiting for you to say your first words.
Prepare! You'll feel so much better ;o) Aaahhhh!
No comments:
Post a Comment