Tuning In

Finding A Frequency:

Presence and Executive Presence are terms that people will pay to learn, but the more I teach, the more I realize it’s not about adding in new information, but letting go of what isn’t yours to carry. 

In early acting and improv classes, you are taught to tune in to what is happening, aka reality. You spend a lot of time learning how to be present under pressure. 

Half of my work is virtual and half in-person. I love both, but I can find myself completely exhausted at the end of the day. 

Last week, after eight hours of virtual coaching, I lay down on the couch to mindlessly rewatch a show so I wouldn’t have to pay full attention. A thought came to me, “Stop looking at the screen and pay attention to what’s in this room.” I shut my laptop down and lay there. 

I first noticed the light in the room. The sun was going down, and I was facing west. I sat up more so I could see the pinks and oranges in the sky. 

Why would I stare at this screen (above) and not this view (below)?

Our bedroom faces east. Why would I stare at this screen (below)

Instead of these incredible sunrise skies?

Being where you are, while you are there:

This exercise draws on Mary Overlie’s Viewpoints Technique, which uses movement, time, and space to build narratives and train performers in spontaneity and physical awareness.

Take a moment to notice and feel the space that you are currently in. 

Solid Mass: If you are inside, notice the container you are in. If you are outside, take the information in as if you are on a set. What are the walls like in this space? Notice the floors. How do they feel underfoot? How high is the ceiling?

Texture: What textures exist in this space? Wood, metal, glass, wicker, fabric, paper, etc. Touch them if you can.

Light: Where are the light sources in the room? Is it natural, human-made, or both? Where are the shadows?

Color: Is there a predominant color in the space? What colors are there, and how do they make you feel?

Sound: What sounds do you hear in the room and outside the room?

Once you answer these questions, set your timer and sit there for as long as you can. Notice any impulses to check your phone. Trust the timer will break the spell, and you can just be where you are while you are there. Next time, I’ll focus on felt presence in the body. Until then, inhabit your life as often as you can. Turn away from the screen and be where you are.