Alexander Techniqu Breathing

There are many connections that can be made between the process that goes into stage combat and acting. Three main points that are consistently made when discussing the techniques that crossover between the two are using proper alignment, good breathing techniques, and being grounded. Using proper alignment gives the performer a place to start when discovering aspects of a character’s movement style, having good breath support allows the body to relax and focus its energy, and being grounded aids in balance along with an awareness of the surroundings. By utilizing all three skills together the actor becomes well rounded in his/her abilities as a performer and will be capable of taking on more challenging roles. Having proper alignment is a basic element of bringing a character to life. Many actors and dancers learn to use the Alexander
They go about their lives and think nothing of it, but breathing can be used as an effective tool in the movement process. When working in stage combat, techniques will come much easier if the breath is used throughout all of the steps. For example, while working on a forward roll if the breath comes in during preparation the muscles are more relaxed and the brain is focused and ready for the next step. Breathing out during the roll is an essential part of the second step; otherwise the body tenses up and will hit the ground hard, which would completely defeat the point of doing the first step. Breath support also gives the actor’s voice the projection needed for the back row of the audience to hear their lines or reactions. Breathing can also become a character trait if the character breathes very loudly or just in a funny way. Breathing also helps to keep the timing of everything right, so the scene stays at a consistent pace and the actors do not try to get ahead of themselves in the scene. This type of pacing is a good way of staying