Clear Chest Voice

26th August 2024

अविस्तरम् असंदिग्धम् अविलम्बितम् अव्यथम् | उरःस्थम् कण्ठगम् वाक्यम् वर्तते मध्यमे स्वरम् || Valmiki Ramayan 4.-3-31

Listening, Short and precise, Clear, Not delayed, Harmonious, Speech raising from the chest or the throat and conveying in comfortable middle pitch are the first seven attributes of effective communication skill, elaborated by Lord Ram as the characteristics of Hanuman’s speech.

Skill 6 – Urastham Kantagam – Speech coming from the chest or the throat

Ura has multiple meanings and Ura here refers to Chest and Kantaga means throat in Sanskrit. Good speech should originate from the chest or the throat and not from the tongue.

#ChestVoice

Chest voice is a term used to describe the lower register of the human voice, which resonates in the chest cavity.

This type of voice is often associated with power, authority, and strength, and it is generally perceived as more mature and grounded than a higher pitched voice. Many people find chest voice attractive and appealing because of its perceived qualities of strength and confidence.

Voice and sound therapy often emphasize the importance of using the chest voice as a means of grounding and centering oneself. This is because the chest voice is associated with the lower chakras in the body, which are connected to feelings of stability, security, and groundedness. By focusing on the chest voice, individuals can connect with these feelings and create a sense of inner balance and stability.

Chest Voice is applicable only for verbal communication and is a useful tool for singers and speakers.

Impact of Chest Voice on Perception and Communication

A study published in the Journal of Nonverbal Behavior found that people rated voices that were produced using chest resonance as more attractive, competent, and confident than voices that were produced using a head resonance. Another study published in the Journal of Voice found that using chest resonance could improve the clarity and intelligibility of speech, particularly in individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Techniques to Build Chest Voice

To help you build your chest voice, consider the following techniques:

• Start with proper breathing - take deep breaths and expand your ribcage to support your voice.
• Practice vocal exercises that help you feel vibrations in your chest, such as humming or lip trills.
• Focus on speaking or singing from a lower part of your throat and chest, instead of from your head or nasal cavity.
• Use your chest muscles to support your voice but avoid tension or strain. Gradually increase your volume and power but maintain control and good technique.
• Work with a vocal coach or speech therapist to develop your technique and address any issues or limitations in your voice.

One who used Chest voice to the best - #BarryWhite

One of the most famous rich chest voices belongs to Barry White - an American singer and songwriter who had a distinctive bass-baritone voice. His chest voice was characterized by its rich and velvety texture, which helped him become a successful R&B artist in the 1970s.

Benefits of Developing Chest Voice

Here are some of the benefits of developing chest voice:

• Increased confidence: When you speak with a chest voice, you project more power and authority. This can help you feel more confident and assertive in your interactions with others.
• Better vocal health: Using your chest voice properly can help you avoid vocal strain and damage. By speaking from your chest rather than your throat, you can reduce the risk of developing vocal nodules or other voice disorders.
• Improved resonance: A chest voice has a richer, fuller sound than a head voice, which can make your speech more engaging and dynamic. This can be particularly effective in public speaking, where you want to capture your audience's attention and keep them engaged.

Third best speech in our series of ‘Motivational best speeches ever delivered’

#IAmPreparedToDie-NelsonMandela

In 1948, South African leadership began enforcing official policies of racial segregation. This apartheid segregation restricted who black Africans could marry, where they could live, and what professions they could work.

As the leader of the African National Congress (ANC), Nelson Mandela and his comrades spent years fighting against apartheid. He was arrested several times for treason and sabotage, and when the government raided an ANC hideout in Rivonia, they finally had enough evidence to charge Mandela & 11 other to life imprisonment.

At the Rivonia Trial in 1964, Mandela stood before the South African Supreme Court. Instead of testifying for himself, he delivered the most famous and inspirational speech. He expressed his passion for the freedom of the African people and his hatred for apartheid. The address held the court spellbound for nearly four hours.

“During my lifetime, I have dedicated my life to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against Black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons will live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal for which I hope to live for and to see realised. But, my Lord, if it needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die………..” Mandela thundered.

Although his words did not save Mandela from being convicted, the speech struck a chord in the hearts of his audience and stirred up unrest in the South African people.

Mandela served 27 years in prison for his beliefs, but his words and his bravery were instrumental in dismantling the apartheid system in his country. He was eventually released from prison in 1990, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, and became the country’s first black head of state and the first to be elected democratically.

A passionate, unambiguous and fearless speech that won the hearts.

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PositiveNewsPage

Suhas Ramegowda, a former corporate professional with 15 years of experience traded the fast-paced life of Bengaluru for the peace of the Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu. This wasn't just a change in location but also a shift in purpose.

Even before moving, Suhas and his wife Sunitha claimed they embraced minimalism in Bangalore, reducing their monthly expenses to less than Rs 10,000. This shift towards "doing more with less" eased their transition to rural life, they said.

According to the Ramegowdas, their first five years in Nilgiris were dedicated to integrating with the local community and understanding their struggles. Suhas claims to have realised the differences in their experiences, especially regarding livelihood. He and Sunitha decided to leverage their skills to find a solution.

They began by upskilling five women in the community but aimed beyond just skill development. They saw the need for market access, leading them to establish two foundations.

1. Indian Yards Foundation -- A non-profit focusing on upskilling and capacity building for rural women.

2. The Good Doll Pvt. Ltd -- A private company providing a sustainable market for the handcrafted products created by the empowered women.

#TheGoodDoll

Good Doll aims at celebrating diversity with various skin tones and removable clothing, making them relatable to a wider audience. Each doll comes with a "maker card" featuring the artisan's photo, name, and story, fostering a personal connection between the buyer and the maker.

Environmental Responsibility

Environmental responsibility is also touted as a core principle. The company uses upcycled fabrics to tackle plastic waste in the toy industry, addressing both economic development and environmental concerns.

The Business That Grew

The Good Doll generated Rs 75 lakhs in its first year and aims for Rs 2 crore this year. Initially focused on major Indian cities, they are expanding to Delhi, Hyderabad, and Kolkata and plan to enter the export market later this year.

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Conceived, compiled and posted as a weekly newsletter #MondayMusings by Jaganathan T (www.authorjaganathan.com) consistently for the past 272 weeks and will continue every Monday. Subscribe, Read, Enjoy, Like, Share, Learn, Grow and #SpreadPositivity.

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