In conversation with Rachel Ley

Rocking the Journey talks with Rachel Ley Actor and Vocal coach on how the power of the voice can help build our confidence and how the quality of the words we use can raise and not deplete our energy. 

Trained as an actor and now a Vocal Coach Rachel also works in events and is currently studying for an MA in Voice Studies. Rachel coaches speakers, presenters often in large groups –using voice and presence more effectively. Her idea around ‘speaking thoughts’ (an actor speaks in thoughts, a script is written in thoughts) rather than speaking in words –it allows us more time for reflection as we speak and slowing down our communication.

Her thoughts about bringing the breath to bear in bringing out the strength of the natural voice and also the importance of poise and relaxation in finding a full range and strength for the voice very much resonated with the work we do at RMA. We also touched on:

-       How anxiety can affect the strength and quality of our communication 

-       The power of the pause and the importance of listening as much as speaking. 

-       Our choice of words can either raise our energy or deplete it. Try saying: Abundant vs. excessive or Kind vs. cruel or Noble vs. Pompous –how does each make you feel –does not lift you more than another? 

As Rachel says; ‘The tongue is the guardian of the heart’ and how we use words can help build or challenge relationships and how our every word, deed and intention creates a record of who we are. 

Another big topic we covered is the idea of ‘Recalibrating everything’. Something we both resonated with and are currently going through: what next and how we want to live. And how as reach our 50’s and 60’s at what point ‘do we know things’ and how do we use our experiences to help others grow and develop and also find validity in that and most importantly value. 

We could have carried on talking about these topics forever –but we will definitely be picking many of these up and digging deeper on what they mean for the way we live our lives over the coming weeks and months.