Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Alexander
Technique?
The Alexander Technique (also Alexander Method) is a process of movement
re-education developed by F.M. Alexander at the beginning of the 20th
century. (Alexander was a Shakespearean actor who cured himself of voice loss
and shortness of breath which had plagued him during performance.) The
technique is a dialogue between teacher and student rather than therapist and
patient. Students learn the process whereby they develop the ability to
choose balanced, easy and appropriate responses to stimuli rather than
habitual, tense, unbalanced and effortful responses.
Not massage or a system of exercises, the Alexander Technique is a method to
increase our awareness of how we inhabit ourselves, an awareness that
restores the easy relationship to gravity that we had as children. Thinking
becomes clearer, perceptions more acute.
In a typical lesson we work with everyday full body movements such as
sitting, standing, walking, and more particular activities of the
student’s choice. We use these activities to notice inefficient habits
of “use” and, with our thinking and the gentle guidance of the
teacher’s hands, to allow more balanced, flexible, powerful and
efficient coordination.
Who can benefit from this work?
Anyone wishing increased physical (and mental) comfort, flexibility,
awareness and performance. The Alexander Technique is widely used by
musicians, actors and athletes, including dancers, equestrians, runners and
golfers. It has been studied and enthusiastically endorsed by John Dewey,
educator, Nicholaus Tinbergen, Nobel Prize for Medicine, Aldous Huxley,
philosopher and author, Paul McCartney, Robin Williams, the Israeli Air Force
and Special Forces, among others.
What scientific research supports the Alexander Technique?
- Albert Magnus, physiologist, extensive research on
the movement of vertebrates.
- Frank Pierce Jones, Freedom To Choose
- T.D.M. Roberts, All About Balance
- Michael Gelb, Body Learning
|
