Spontaneity and Structure
For the actor, breath is not only a gateway to inspiration but also the basis of audible expression: There is no vocal sound without breath! Breath work for acting involves cultivating both the spontaneity of a free inhalation and the focus of a “structured” exhalation that supports intention and clarity of purpose. At the heart of this balance lies the engagement of the transverse abdominal muscle, working in harmony with a buoyant rib basket to create a breathing pattern that is both profoundly natural and practical for fully expressive communication.
The Transverse Abdominal Muscle: A Natural Support System
The transverse abdominal muscle, encircling the torso like a wide obi belt, plays a vital role in the act of expression. Engaging this muscle during exhalation can help the actor to release the more superficial abdominal musculature, delay rib squeeze, and avoid creating excess pressure at the vocal folds. This engagement is not about imposing tightness, but rather provides a structured physical foundation that supports the breath mechanism. It allows the actor to maintain expansion, avoid collapse, and cultivate a feeling of buoyancy and openness through the rib basket—an essential component for sustaining resonance and power in the voice.
Natural Breath Patterns: Observations in Nature
This structured breath pattern is not an artificial construct but an intrinsic part of our biological heritage, evident in the behavior of animals and humans alike. Whether it’s the focused roar of a big cat, the vocal expressions of primates, or the excited exclamation of a human character, there is an instinctive coordination between the diaphragm and the abdominal muscles when engaged in vocalization. Practicing this coordination ensures that the impulse to express is readily supported by an efficient balance of breath pressure and airflow.
Avoiding Rib and Throat Squeeze: The Key to Vocal Ease
The objective of structured breath is straightforward: to prevent restrictive ‘rib squeeze’ and the consequent ‘throat squeeze’ that can often result from tense or over-pressurized exhalation. This constriction not only inhibits vocal freedom but can lead to tension and fatigue, impeding the actor’s ability to express with ease and authenticity. By contrast, a supported breath pattern facilitates a sense of openness in the throat, allowing the voice to flow outwards with clarity and emotional depth.
Structured breathing is not a rigid framework imposed upon the breath but a gentle guide that honors the organic nature of vocal expression. It encourages actors to remain physically connected to their emotional life and the impulses that drive their character’s communication. The transverse abdominal muscle, when skillfully engaged, becomes a silent ally in the delivery of each thought, ensuring that the actor’s breath is always in service to their intention.
Video Examples
The videos below show the dynamics of breath movement in a variety of animal and human contexts. Click on the menu in the upper right corner to see the whole playlist.