Feeling the power of ‘hwyl’
When you speak in public, are you doing it with ‘hwyl’?
Growing up in Wales, the Land of Song, there were many moments of ‘hwyl’.
It’s an untranslatable Welsh word that refers to passion, energy and emotional connection.
Its origin is ‘hwylio’, which means ‘to sail’.
It’s that spark you feel when you know you’re engaging, and creating something special, with others.
The spark that transforms a so-so presentation… into an unforgettable experience.
I remember it well.
Singing in the school choir.
Caroling round town with friends, singing in four-part harmony.
Belting out the national anthem before rugby matches.
That deep feeling of ‘hwyl’ was very present.
And very powerful.
Integrating ‘hwyl’ into our public speaking makes us more
👥 Engaging
Our audience feels the connection and listens from start to finish.
🌿 Authentic
As we’re speaking from the heart, it means we - and our words - resonate more.
✨ Memorable
A presentation or story delivered with passion is more likely to stick.
Remember: people remember most how we made them feel.
So, when you next speak up…
Feel the ‘hwyl’!
The deep connection. The wind in your sails. And power in your voice.