How to Act Like a Mermaid

Mermaids are mythological creatures that have the upper body of a human and lower body of fish. Act like a mermaid if you have aspiration to land a part in a theatrical performance, want to mimic marine life for Halloween or participate in the Coney Island "Mermaid Parade."

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Create a mermaid back story. Mermaids live in the seas and rule over the marine life. Look up names associated with the sea to decide what to call your character.

2. Sew a mermaid costume or buy one from a specialty store. A mermaid has a tail fin and a color coordinating top. Use either a bra or pasties and consider a waterproof fin to allow for swimming.

3. Style your hair in crimps or curls. All mermaids have long flowing hair, use wigs or an extension to create length.

4. Get bonus points for going with a rainbow inspired hair color such as pink, purple or green. Accessorize your hair with starfish or miniature sea shells.

5. Apply makeup. Use several coats of water proof makeup in bright metallic colors and glitter to create an ethereal look.

6. Time how long you can hold your breath underwater. Keep working to increase your lung capacity. Relax under the water and open your eyes.

7. Practice swimming like a mermaid. Mermaids use buoyancy to ascend, descend and float in the water. Practice swimming with your legs together until it becomes effortless.

Tips & Warnings

• If your not planning to be in the water, you may choose to wear a long skirt decorated with a fin so you can walk around.

• Visit the Coney Island "Mermaid Parade." This annual festive event features mermaids, mermen and a variety of other sea creatures.

• Swimming by yourself and holding your breath underwater can be dangerous. Practice with a partner for supervision and use safety skills.

Resources

• Act out your mermaid fantasies in the Mermaid Parade.