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Taking up Space
Episode 61
In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne Leatherland revisits the idea of “owning the space” and takes it further, on how to take up space so you feel you belong in the room and your message lands. She explains that voice is both physical and personal, shaped by breath, alignment and the nervous system, and shares two client wins (Elsa’s impromptu graduation talk and Claire’s high-stakes Zoom) to show how grounding, breath–vocal fold coordination and seated dynamic alignment can transform confidence and clarity.
Anne contrasts rigid “power poses” with natural, responsive body use, then guides safe awareness exercises on head–neck balance (drawing on the Alexander Technique), spinal curves and allowing micromovements to stay balanced.
Key Takeaways
Owning the space is essential, but feeling entitled to take it up (you belong here; your voice deserves to be heard) is the unlock for confident speaking.
Swap “posture” for dynamic alignment: a responsive, balanced stance or seat that keeps you free to move and speak, never rigid. Think micromovements, not statues.
Head–neck balance changes your sound: craning forward, lifting the chin, leaning, or slumping tightens the system; a small “nodding dog” balance frees it. Try counting to five in each position to feel the difference.
Your voice is a system: breath interacts with the vocal folds, supported by abdominal and stabilising musculature, so alignment and breathing habits matter.
Best Moments
“Successful communication begins before you even open your mouth.”
“Our head is not attached to our neck like a lollipop on a stick.”
“We need to allow what I call micro movements.”
“Our voice is the result of lots of different processes.”
About the host
With over 28 years’ voice-teaching experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients progress quickly and achieve goals with confidence. Bridging science, education and the performing arts, she is a science graduate, qualified teacher and singing teacher with advanced training in voice practice, vocal habilitation and life coaching. As the only Vocal Process Associate Trainer, Anne mentors and trains other voice teachers. Her holistic, collaborative approach nurtures every aspect of the voice alongside personal growth.
Find out more: https://anneleatherland.co.uk/
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Published on 2 weeks ago