Mind Body Connection
The following exercise* is deceptive. When first learned, it teaches the actor (or speaker) to connect mind to breath as simple movement. Later, the actor (or speaker) realizes it allows for release of tension and free movement. Finally, the actor uses it to release emotion and physically inhabit characters within their natural range.
Things to Remember
1. Breathing is movement, and NOT a conscious intake of air.
2. A simple lift of a hand or arm, will lift the rib cage and automatically draw in air.
3. All movement should be smooth and free of tension.
4. Head tips back and lips part slightly as arms stretch overhead (to protect vocal cords.)
5. Weight at all times should be over the arches of the feet, NOT the heels or toes.
6. Exhalation for speaking, moving etc. begins with descent of the rib cage.
7. Breathing cycle ends when rib cage settles.
1. Breathing is movement, and NOT a conscious intake of air.
2. A simple lift of a hand or arm, will lift the rib cage and automatically draw in air.
3. All movement should be smooth and free of tension.
4. Head tips back and lips part slightly as arms stretch overhead (to protect vocal cords.)
5. Weight at all times should be over the arches of the feet, NOT the heels or toes.
6. Exhalation for speaking, moving etc. begins with descent of the rib cage.
7. Breathing cycle ends when rib cage settles.
*This is not medical advice. Do the exercise at intervals. Only three times in repetition.
Otherwise, taking in so much air, could lead to hyperventilation. As with all exercises,
take them slowly at first, and with any medical problems, consult a medical professional
before doing it.
Otherwise, taking in so much air, could lead to hyperventilation. As with all exercises,
take them slowly at first, and with any medical problems, consult a medical professional
before doing it.