What techniques can help reduce anxiety before public speaking?

The techniques of deep breathing, positive visualization, and thorough preparation are highly effective in reducing anxiety before public speaking because they address both the physiological and psychological aspects of anxiety.

Deep breathing helps calm the nervous system, allowing speakers to center themselves and maintain composure. It slows the heart rate and can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as sweating or shaking. Positive visualization involves imagining a successful presentation, which can boost confidence and create a more positive mindset. This mental technique allows the speaker to envision themselves engaging with the audience successfully, thereby reducing fears associated with public performance. Thorough preparation ensures that the speaker is knowledgeable about their material, which leads to increased confidence and a lower likelihood of encountering unexpected situations that could cause anxiety.

These approaches collectively create a greater sense of readiness and control, enabling the speaker to connect with their audience effectively. The other options do not provide constructive techniques for managing anxiety. Ignoring the crowd may lead to a disconnect during the presentation, speaking without practice increases the chances of uncertainty and mistakes, and relying solely on notes can hinder engagement and make the speaker appear unprepared.