What
is the Alexander Technique?
A proven approach to self-care, the Alexander Technique is a method that people
of all ages and abilities can learn to relieve the pain and stress caused by
everyday misuse of the body.
With the Alexander Technique, you learn how to strip away the movement habits
and tensions patterns at the root of your discomfort. You learn how to balance
your own body and take charge of your own health. You learn how to sit, stand
and move - with safety, efficiency and ease.
The Alexander Technique practitioner, a professional trained in the art of observation
and expert guidance, leads you through a one-on-one learning process tailored
to your needs. Over a course of sessions, your teacher helps you release muscular
tension and restore your body's original poise. As you address your entire body
- not just segments - you learn to improve your overall functioning.
Noted actors, musicians and athletes have used it for over 100 years to enhance
performance and stage presence. Among them are Sir Colin Davis, William Hurt,
Jeremy Irons, James Earl Jones, Kevin Kline, Paul McCartney, Kelly McGillis,
Paul Newman, Lynn Redgrave, Maggie Smith, Mary Steenbergen, Sting, Robin Williams,
Joanne Woodward and members of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.
When someone has a profession with particular physical demands or needs to make
changes in habitual movement patterns, I suggest the Alexander Technique. I
have found it very helpful for patients with low body awareness or those who
have trouble relaxing.
Gail King, PT, MS
Backtec Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy
New York, NY
Origin
of the Alexander Technique
F.M. Alexander (1869-1955)
As a young man, Alexander was a Shakespearean actor touring in Australia and Tasmania. Chronic hoarseness interrupted his burgeoning career, and he lost his voice while performing. When no medical treatment helped him, he looked at his own movement for the source of his vocal trouble. Through nine years of rigorous self-observation and experiment, he solved his problem, developed a full, rich voice and discovered what he named the primary control.
The
Core of Movement
Alexander observed that the relationship between the head, neck and torso is
primary in controlling posture, movement and function. Compressive movement
habits interfere with the function of the body's ingenious design. Eliciting
the primary control restores the innate postural reflex - a natural, dynamic
force that counters gravity and easily guides the torso upward.
Research
Leaders in the field of mind/body medicine and behavioral science throughout
this century have supported Alexander's innovative research. Clinical studies
have shown that the Technique improves breathing capacity and posture, modifies
stress responses and is, for those who suffer from chronic pain, the preferred
method for long-term pain relief.
Mr. Alexander has demonstrated a new scientific principle regarding the control
of human behavior as important as any ever discovered in the domain of external
nature.
Learning
the Alexander Technique
What happens in a session?
In an Alexander Technique session, your teacher observes how you move and helps
you understand how your movement style relates to your symptom. S/he instructs
you - with words and touch - to approach movement differently. Using a unique
hands-on method to elicit your primary control, s/he gives you an experience
of dynamic expansion. With this expert guidance, you learn how to replicate
that expansion on your own.
This powerful shift gives your body a highly responsive coordination.
Can I learn the Technique on my own?
Habits are, by their nature, unconscious. Though you may try to effect changes
by yourself, it takes the trained eyes and hands of a teacher to help you perceive
and change your ingrained patterns. With a gentle, supportive touch, your teacher
helps you notice areas of tension and experience your body in a new way.
How long does it take? What does it cost?
Duration of study depends on your initial condition and personal goals. To enjoy
the full benefit, a recommended course is 30 private sessions. Lessons average
30-45 minutes. Rates vary depending on your teacher.
Alexander Method Practitioners