Yoga For Actors

Lots of actors do yoga. They know it’s great for them and they know it’s a popular “thing to do” in the acting community. Yet, the benefits of yoga to the actor are rarely talked about. After studying acting for over 5 years both at The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts and NYU’s Stonestreet Studios, I came to realize that I was learning the same techniques and core values that my yoga instructors were teaching me. I decided to gain my certification in yoga and was pleased to learn that my speculation was absolutely true, that yoga can be specifically honed for the benefit of the actor- not just for the stage, but for film as well.

If you’re a trained actor and have done voice classes for stage you can see where the yoga comes in. Finding your center, breathing from your diaphragm, and relaxation are only some of its uses. I have found that you can also use other yoga techniques to help in building a character. Hatha yoga, which I have studied extensively, is all about feminine and masculine energy. Energy is very important for an actor. Finding a character’s energy either is a helpful tool for bringing that character to life.

As an example, think of a meathead football player’s energy. Think of the energy and presence that is needed when that football player walks out onto that football field ready to win the national championship? Or, on the opposite end of the spectru, think of a depressed alcoholic reciting his woes at an AA meeting. These characters exude energy that is easily relayed to an audience.

I have found that certain yoga postures can easily help any actor find that sort of energy. Preparation is key, and finding the right level of energy for an indvidual scene is up to you. I have a way that clicks with me, and I believe it can be helpful to any actor, whatever your preferred technique may be.

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This article was written by certified yoga instructor Kelsey Hammerud. To make an appointment for a private yoga session, e-mail kelseyhammerud@hotmail.com.