ABSTRACT

The Relaxation Exercise will strengthen concentration and is a major preparation for the work by eliminating tension, which can stop the mind and body from responding and functioning fully. Actor in training can achieve the creative mood by doing the Relaxation Exercise. During Relaxation he makes an effort to search out areas of the body that hold the tension which impedes the flow of impulses and is inhibiting him from controlling his behavior. Relaxation Exercise is not intended to induce or indulge an emotional response, although that may occur. The Relaxation Exercise permits him to identify and break self-sabotaging unconscious habits that impede his expression. Both teachers and directors should keep the practice of Relaxation active in their work at all times, continually reminding actors to return to it when there is a distraction, a block in expressiveness, a loss of control, or an inability to break out of limiting habits – in class, rehearsals, or pre-performance.