There are two ways to take a breath. One works, the other doesn't.
Breathing is fundamental to speaking and there are two ways to take a breath. The wrong way is by expanding the rib-cage. This breath is shallow and gives you no control over your voice. You know you’re taking a breath with your rib-cage when you see your shoulders and chest rise up.
The right kind of breath utilizes your diaphragm and is experienced in your abdominals. You know you’re breathing correctly when you feel your entire lower torso expand.
Finally, when taking a breath, as much as possible, breathe-in through your nose. Air rushing in through your mouth is cold and dry. By breathing in through your nose you warm up and moisten the air, a condition necessary for optimal voice performance.
Breathing deeply with your diaphragm is not only the right way to support your voice, but it also allows your body to draw more oxygen, a necessary element for optimal brain and muscle functionality. If you’ve never worked on your breathing, it’s not too late to start.