What is the Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique is a practical method for self-improvement and neuromuscular re-education. The Technique addresses how we use ourselves, or how we use our body to do things. Over time most people develop harmful habits of misuse doing daily activities. These habits include chronic patterns of excess tension that lead to discomfort on many levels. This is a sign that we are not using ourselves in accord with our design. The Technique teaches us to organize ourselves to have poise, coordination, presence, and coherent energy. Through the Alexander work, we develop an awareness of what we are thinking and doing. Once we are aware of what we are doing, then we are enabled with the choice to change.
The body’s organic design is based on the dynamic relationship of the head, neck, back and limbs to each other, and to the ground. Alexander called this relationship the primary control. Through touch, visual and verbal explanations, the student is taught the basic principles of the primary control and a few simple directions that are helpful reminders of those principles. The student also learns to understand the inhibitive nature of the nervous system-or non-doing -to change unproductive habits. This process of examination and exploration, guided by the Alexander teacher, results in increased body awareness, improved ease of movement, a new sense of support, and a greater ability to respond appropriately to each given moment.
“Together with improved physical and mental health, I have found the Alexander Technique has brought about a general heightening of consciousness on all levels.”