How I Changed My Stuttering Mindset

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Re: Techniques

From: Alan Badmington (to Gailyn)
Date: 02 Oct 2005
Time: 14:49:49 -0500
Remote Name: 84.66.105.15

Comments

Hi Gailyn, In May 2000, I learned a new method of breathing called ‘costal breathing’. This involved breathing through the mouth in a manner similar to opera singers. Within a very short period of time (literally hours), I found that I was able to adopt the new technique and ensure that I had an adequate supply of air behind the vocal cords to prevent clamping. If I blocked, I could utilise a simple method of releasing the block, before taking another costal breath. I also gained the ability to monitor movement of my diaphragm, thus ensuring that I always took a full costal breath before I spoke. In addition, I also learned numerous different techniques that allowed me to say my ‘feared’ words. The Programme that I joined also taught me to resist time pressure; pause (something that I had always avoided); clarify my feelings before speaking; formulate my words in advance; speak from the thorax; speak immediately upon exhalation with greater assertiveness and improved articulation etc etc. I learned so much. In the beginning, my speech was necessarily mechanical and I restricted the number of words that I said per breath. But that was relatively short-lived and I soon progressed to more ‘natural’ speech. I was able to practise 24/7 by accessing a support network. When I had gained further in confidence and proficiency (and overcame my fears), I did not find it necessary to continue using any technique. You enquire where you may find more information about the tools/techniques that I used. You may wish to visit: http://www.mcguireprogramme.com Thank you for your interest in my paper. Kindest regards Alan Badmington


Last changed: 10/24/05