Anyone know any good breathing exercises for actors?

Question

I need breathing exercises for an acting class at school, but I can't find any on the internet! Someone plz help me!

Answer 1

Breathing is VERY important for actors since they don't want to get out of breath when delivering a monologue or other dialogue. Before a performance, you should practice breathing. Inhale for 10 seconds, bringing in as much air as possible, exhale for 10 seconds. Inhale for 8, exhale for 8. Repeat until you get down to one second. Hope this helps!

Answer 2

Breathing Exercises For Actors

Answer 3

I always urge actors to learn the principles of "rib-reserve" breathing -- it's what classically trained singers have used for centuries. With practice, you can learn to swing the ribcage out laterally, creating the maximum space for air to flow into. After accomplishing the "rib swing," all that's necessary is to allow the lower abdomen to move in and out with each breath. Instead of trying to fill/empty the entire vessel every time (like a bellows), the actor maintains the expanded ribcage, and merely replenishes that space as needed.

If you want to try it out, it's best to begin lying down. Keep your hands on your ribs on either side, and practice pushing out against them as you breathe. Soon, you'll get the hang of the rib swing!

Answer 4

A simple exercise in breath control is one I use with my beginning actors- I call it a 'hissy fit.' Breathing deep into the lungs, see how long you can sustain a hiss with your teeth without it breaking. This teaches economy of breath- learning how to control your exhale so that you don't run out mid-sentence, etc.

Answer 5

The best thing I could offer any actor if they have not already done so is to read "Freeing the Natural Voice" by Kristen Linklater. It has been invaluable for me as well as countless actors around the world.

Answer 6

When I took voice, the teacher used to have us lay on our backs, and place a heavy dictionary on our diaphragm (lower abdomen), and sing laying down, and when we inhaled the book had to move. A very difficult exercise at first, but it strengthens the diaphragm and helps greatly with breathing control.

Answer 7

I breathe in for 2 counts and then breathe out (hissing, blowing, whatever) over 8 counts. It's very calming. I love it!

Answer 8

lay down on the floor including your back thoroughly flat against the floor and breathe - that's what it feels opt to respire out of your diaphram. while doing respiration workouts or attempting tp breathe propperly to enhance projection variety, you may shop your shoulders sq. and that they could no longer pass once you breathe - your stomache will inflate as you breathe in and deflate as you breathe out.

Answer 9

Google : linklater breathing

Answer 10

Breathe in and fill up your gut, keeping some in your chest.