[JoeS21]

Anyone know?

[shezbut]

Take some slow, deep breaths. R-e-l-a-x. Close your eyes, and picture a very relaxing and peaceful place. Continue to breathe slowly. In through the nose & out through your mouth.

After several minutes (5-10) of deep relaxation, try talking again. It should be much easier. If not, try another relaxation technique. Or write about what's on your mind. Etc. Try again.

Yes, basically practice, practice, and then practice. I think I read once that the throat muscles are the hardest muscles to relax.

I find if around people and talking sip on a glass of water time to gather your composure, then slowly talk in a lower tone. The pitch of the voice often goes up an octave when we are stressed or upset. That is the practice part. And don't mumble, speak clearly. That should help. And just answer one question or thought. Don't try to answer everything all at once. This destresses one and tend to remove the anxiety or panic attacks. Hope this helps, blessings

[PandorasAquarium]

A little trick for the phone - smile. The physical action of smiling actually has an audible effect on your voice, making you sound nicer, happier, more relaxed. Even if you don't feel like it.

Unfortunately, unless you are good enough to force a Duchenne smile and can reflect it in your eyes, it's easy to get busted for a fake smile in person. So really, this trick works best over the phone. But it does work. Promise.