The Alexander Technique
The Alexander Technique is a very practical method of education which uses observation and attention to the performance of simple activities to explore the relationship between mind and body.
The Alexander Technique was developed by the Australian actor F. Matthias Alexander (1869-1955). Alexander was an actor and recitor who found himself increasingly beset by voice problems. Treatments of the day brought only temporary relief . Alexander wondered if it might be something that he was doing whilst performing that was causing his problems. He had noticed that his voice was increasingly strained by public performance so decided to observe himself in the act of performing using a number of mirrors to allow him to view his actions from several angles. Alexander discovered that the functioning of our system is strongly affected by how we co-ordinate our head, neck and back relationship in activity. When we interfere with this subtle dynamic balance we can create distortion and strain. The result of this may be experienced as specific symptoms such as backache, stiff neck and shoulders,postural problems or more generally as a lack of poise, feeling ‘off balance’ or ‘out of touch’ with our body.
Why We Need It
In children we can see a freedom in movement that allows them to move gracefully and without strain. We rarely see that same freedom continuing into adult life. Most of us have developed habits which interfere with our natural co-ordination and functioning. We become disconnected and find ourselves reacting automatically in ways which interfere with our physical, emotional and mental well-being.
Medical Conditions Known To Respond To The Alexander Technique
- Backache, necktie, where posture is a factor
- Vocal disorders and vocal chord nodules
- Stress
- High blood pressure
- Asthma
- Anxiety states (including performance anxiety & panic attacks)
- Functional disorders
- Temporo-mandibular joint syndrome
- Spondylosis
- Migraine
- Tension Headaches
- Rehabilitation after stroke, injury, operation or other treatment
- Prevention of backache during pregnancy
- Non-specific regional pain syndrome
Stress & Emotional Upset
The Alexander Technique can help deal with stress and emotional problems. Our reaction to stress or emotional upset shows up in the various postures and attitudes that we adopt and our postures can in turn reinforce how we feel. By dealing with the physical and the mental components simultaneously the technique can help shed light on less conscious patterns of thought , feeling or posture and interrupt unproductive cycles. I can also help with nervousness and nervous habits.
How is the Alexander Technique Taught ?
The Alexander Technique involves exploring “how” we do things rather than “what” we do. It is best learned in one-to-one sessions, which involve the use of verbal instruction and guided movement. These ‘lessons’ or ‘explorations’ help to uncover and eliminate tension and stress and encourage the return to a more natural co-ordination and poise with the accompanying benefits to health and well-being. Since our physical well-being affects our mental and emotional well-being, those learning the technique often find themselves feeling more confidant and positive in life. The technique is taught in a series of one to one sessions. Each sessions lasts approximately 30 minutes. Although a few sessions can make an difference it is recommended to have between 20 to 30 sessions to ensure that the skill can be learned and changes can be maintained.
For Information Visit https://alexandertechnique.co.uk/