Which of the following practices aids in reducing speech anxiety?

Positive visualization is a technique that helps individuals mentally prepare for a presentation by envisioning themselves succeeding. This practice encourages the speaker to imagine the audience reacting positively, which can create a sense of confidence and reduce anxiety. When someone visualizes a successful performance, they are more likely to approach the actual speaking experience with a positive mindset, thereby alleviating feelings of fear or nervousness.

The other practices listed do not effectively contribute to managing speech anxiety. Ignoring audience feedback can prevent a speaker from adapting their delivery based on audience reactions, possibly increasing anxiety when the audience appears disengaged. Relying solely on notes might create a heavy dependence on written material, limiting the speaker's ability to connect with the audience and thereby heightening anxiety when they are unable to refer to their notes. Speaking for a long duration without pause can lead to misunderstandings and may increase feelings of nervousness, as the speaker might lose their audience’s attention or struggle to manage their thoughts effectively. Through positive visualization, however, individuals can mentally prepare and foster a sense of reassurance, leading to a more confident delivery.