Healing Through Martial Arts: Reconstruction of Bodymind in Actor Training
Abstract
Abstract: The bodymind work is a vulnerable
subject with relevance to actor training
methodologies. Especially, if the body is
perceived as an actor’s main instrument, which
is a common viewpoint in major actor training
practices. Although the importance of a sound
state of bodymind for acting is emphasized,
studies of the bodymind treatment and recovery
are rarely incorporated in actor training. This
research attempts to find ways to preserve
actors’ physical and mental wellbeing in order
to prevent collapses of their instrument – the
body. Tadashi Suzuki and Phillip Zarrilli have
extensively discussed the bodymind
equilibrium by incorporating strong corporeal
art practices into actor training. In pursuing
their leads, the solution to the research problem
might be found in Martial Arts practices. Sri
Lankan Martial Art Angampora was examined
as a potential source of development of
bodymind awareness and recovery practices in
actor training. The data collection was done
through observation and interviewing Agam
Maduwa group since they are trained in old
traditions of Angampora whereby bodymind
awareness elements are preserved. At the
current stage of ongoing research, it has been
proven that Angampora philosophy incoporates
sustainable means of bodymind wellbeing and
recovery practices. In addition, it was observed
that practicing Angampora benefits mental and
physical stability which results in decreasing
the level of stress and depression. Therefore,
Angampora is an exemplary Martial Art form
that could serve as a role model for
incorporation of wellbeing philosophy and
recovery methods into actor training in order to
prevent physical and mental injuries for actors.
Key words: acting training methodologies,
martial arts, healing practices, Angampora,
bodymind
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- Medicine [6]