What is the Alexander Technique?

Every day we are bombarded with stimuli to which, on the whole, we react immediately without stopping to think!

In fact, many of our problems stem from the fact that we don?t think! Most of the time we act and react in our habitual way. Bent on getting the job done, we give little thought as to how we do it and this frequently leads us into bad habits: we tighten our shoulders, stiffen and shorten our neck, compress our ribcage and generally push down on joints that should be open and free. Although we may be unaware that we have developed habits of using ourselves in the wrong way, we generally notice the results: pain, lack of mobility, poor breathing patterns and a general reduction in our ability to function well.

The Alexander Technique challenges our habits by getting us to STOP and think about whether the way we are doing things is helpful or harmful. And, if it is harmful, to STOP doing things that way and consider a new direction. Simple!

But not easy! Our first reaction to a recognised bad habit is not to STOP but to impulsively DO something about it to put it right and we can be too quick to DO the wrong thing. In place of the old habit a new habit moves in with his friends.

Change Direction

The Alexander Technique is a practical and powerful means of overcoming the tyranny of habit, of re-establishing good use of ourselves and regaining balance, freedom and poise. A teacher of the Alexander Technique can help us to become more self aware, learn how to stop doing ?the wrong things? and have a more thoughtful approach to how we react to the challenges of our daily lives.

Who has lessons?

People choose to have lessons in the Alexander Technique for a variety of reasons:

  • Actors and dancers wanting to improve their performance and manage stage fright

  • Sports people wanting to increase their flexibility, timing, efficiency, co-ordination and general form

  • People with chronic illnesses who are looking for coping skills.

  • People wanting to prevent or alleviate conditions associated with undue tension or poor posture.

  • People who simply want to develop more self awareness and poise.

    • Whatever your reason might be for trying it, the Alexander Technique is a practical method of self help from which anyone can benefit.

    Bobbie Gallagher
    Alexander Technique Teacher
    Trained at the Alexander Re-education Centre in Berkshire and did a post-graduate course at the Constructive Teaching Centre in Holland Park, London. A member of the professional body STAT.

    http://www.alexandertech.me.uk

    Member of http://www.WomenWorking4Women.co.uk