“The chakras are special energy centers which connect us to the multidimensional universe. The chakras are dimensional portals within the subtle bodies which take and process energy of higher vibrational nature so that it may be properly assimilated and used to transform the physical body.” – Richard Gerber MD
UNBLOCKING ENERGY FOR THE ACTOR
The most obvious way to unblock energy centers in the body is to breathe. Spend time breathing into each energy center. Part 2 of this article talks about what each energy center is responsible for
In our Toronto Acting School, two acting students in the Actor’s Instrument Class explore working with Chakra 7-the demon of attachment
These findings are based on Anodea Judith’s work (Eastern Body Western Mind). For chakras that are excessive, invite a gentle release of any blocks on the breath out. Imagine the excess and unnecessary energy pouring out of the chakra and dissipating into thin air. Imagine a little disk spinning to open and energize any deficient chakras.
THE CHAKRAS AND ACTING
Anodea Judith says that each chakra in your body has a “demon” associated with it. In my experience working with the actor’s instrument is what creates blocks.
- Chakra 1 it is Fear.
- Chakra 2 is Guilt.
- Chakra 3 is Shame.
- Chakra 4 is Grief.
- Chakra 5 is Lies.
- Chakra 6 is Illusion.
- Chakra 7 is Attachment.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR THE ACTOR TO WORK WITH ENERGY
I will now give you some practical things you can do to help unblock your energy centers and heal your Actors Instrument. But be sure to check out what each Chakra is responsible for ie: Chakra 5 is responsible for Expression.
Chakra 1: You need to reconnect with your body. Get out and do lots of physical activity like walking, dance, Hatha Yoga. Try and get lots of touch. Massages are great for you. Reclaim your right to be here.
Chakra 2: You need either emotional release or containment. Movement therapy is good for you. Boundary work is a must. Look for healthy pleasures of the body. Inner child work is important for you.
Chakra 3: It is important for you to Risk. You need grounding and emotional contact. Deep relaxation and stress control are key. Hard core exercise like Martial Arts works well. Work on releasing or containing your anger. Strengthen your will.
Chakra 4: You need to learn to breathe deeply. Work on reaching out with your arms as well as receptivity. Emotional release of grief is important. Inner Child work and co-dependency work is a must and practice self-acceptance. Remember you are worthy of love.
Chakra 5: Release your voice by singing or chanting. Story- telling and communication will help tremendously. Or you may have to practice silence. Writing of any kind is good for you. Inner child work is important.
Chakra 6: Create visual art. Any kind of visual stimulation is good for you. Meditation is very helpful. Learn to connect your images with feelings. Dream-work and hypnosis work well and guided visualizations. Learn to be guided by your inner wisdom.
Chakra 7: Work on your physical/emotional connection. Find a Spiritual practice. Meditate. Examine your belief systems. Find the awareness part of your ground and center awareness (see article on Ground and Centre Awareness).
Read Eastern Body Western Mind by Anodea Judith
If you find these articles helpful please let me know by emailing me: cindy@cindytanas.com
The chakra system is a valuable tool for the Actor to use for integrating mind and body.
All characters exist inside of you because you are connected to the “Collective Unconscious”. You are enough! Believe in that…
Cindy Tanas Actors Studio teaches acting classes for Theatre and Film in Toronto and the GTA, Collingwood and Southern Georgian Bay.