Manage stage frights with physical warm-ups

Manage stage frights with physical warm-ups

In the previous issues, we shared that using proper breathing techniques is a good way to manage your stage frights.  In this issue, we look at how actors use physical warm-up to help them prepare for their stage performance. 
 
Head rotation:
1)     Stand upright with your head facing front
2)     Find a focal point in front of you and concentrate on that point
3)     Slowly turn your head to your right.  Feel the stretch on your left neck.
4)     Slowly turn your head back to the front finding your focal point.
5)     Then turn you head slowly to the left, feel the stretch on your right neck.
6)     Slowly turn your head back to the front, back to the focal point.
7)     Repeat this a few times until you feel warmed up.
8)     The focal point helps you to stay focus, which is very important as a actor or speaker so you would not feel distracted during your presentation.

Face and mouth muscle
1)     Small Face/ Big Face – Scrunch your face as small as possible with your mouth tightly close.  Hold for a while, and then release, making your face as wide as possible.  Open up your eyes and mouth as well.  Never mind if you look funny! Repeat the process again for a few times.
2)     Jaw – Open your mouth as wide as possible.  Feel the stretch on the jaw.  Then relax.  Repeat this for a few times.
3)     Mouth – With your mouth close, get your tongue to touch your teeth, moving it around in your mouth.

Give it a try at your next presentation gig and you’ll see the difference.


Yours creatively,

Hazriq Idrus
Founding Director
The Speaking Factory Pte Ltd
www.thespeakingfactory.com