Goals & situations
Breathing before public speaking or a big moment
Before public speaking, a discreet breath with a longer exhale - for example a quiet 4-in, 6-out for a minute - can steady your nerves without anyone noticing. Avoid big, gulping breaths, which can make you feel more light-headed.
The aim is settled but alert - not sedated. A short, even or slightly extended-exhale breath fits well.
What to try
- A quiet extended-exhale breath (4 in, 6 out).
- Equal breathing to feel steady and alert.
Fast option
Three slow breaths with a longer exhale, done discreetly as you wait to go on.
Longer option
A few minutes of slow breathing beforehand, plus a silent Apple Watch session in the wings.
What to avoid
- Big, gulping breaths that can increase light-headedness.
- Long holds that add tension.
Evidence and limitations
Slow breathing reliably lowers self-reported arousal, which may help with nerves; direct evidence that it improves speaking performance is limited. Treat it as a calming aid, not a guarantee.[1]
Safety
In the app
Use a silent Apple Watch session so you can steady yourself right up to the moment you speak.
Sources
- How Breath-Control Can Change Your Life: A Systematic Review of Psycho-Physiological Correlates of Slow Breathing — Zaccaro A, et al., Frontiers in Human Neuroscience (2018). doi:10.3389/fnhum.2018.00353
- Relaxation techniques: Breath control helps quell errant stress response — Harvard Health Publishing
This is general wellbeing information compiled by our editorial team, not medical advice.