Actor Exercise - Release Your Creativity with the Tensing and Releasing Exercise

One of the most important parts of being a successful actor whether for stage or film is to focus your attention onto your body while simultaneously recognizing and releasing any tension; however, this is easier said than done for the majority of actors. Because of this, the tensing and releasing exercise for actors will prove to be extremely valuable as it helps release built-up tension while also keeping the body in proper alignment.

The following is an exercise I perform everyday as a part of my daily "acting exercises." Acting teachers and actors may utilize this exercise to help re-focus their minds and engaging their full-body in relaxation.

Step 1:

Sit in a chair, with your back straight and the palms of your hands resting on your upper thighs. Make sure your feet are planted firmly onto the ground. Close your eyes and focus on tensing all of your muscles within your face - try to pull all these muscles toward your nose. Hold for 10 seconds, then fully release these muscles. Repeat one time. As you release, make an "ah" sound for the full duration of your exhaled breath.

Step 2:

Release tension within your mouth by pressing your tongue into the roof of your mouth for 10 seconds. Then release this tension. Repeat two times.

Step 3:

Repeat the tense and release exercise going from your neck, shoulders, right arm, right hand, left arm, left hand, upper chest, upper back, stomach, lower back, groin area and your buttocks. Also repeat within your right and left leg. Make sure you engage every main muscle group within your body - which includes your toes.

Step 4:

Once you have done this within your entire body, repeat once more starting from your face and working your way down to your toes. The primary goal to remember is to keep all other muscles within your body relaxed while you tense up only one part of your body.