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.

      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.

John Dewey Educator & philosopher

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.

 

John H. M. Austin, MD Professor of Radiology Chief, Division of Radiology Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center New York, NY

 

© 1998 AmSAT