Alexander Technique teaches an individual to become more aware of their posture, balance and movement in everyday life. Alexander Technique teachers work on releasing tension in the head, neck, spine and back areas. By working in group workshops or in a one to one environment the Teacher conveys the principals to the students helping them improve their habits in everyday life. The technique gives the students confidence and freedom of moment that they have not experienced before.
It takes approximately twenty lessons for the student to learn the principals that they can use to benefit their everyday lives. Each session lasts 45 minutes to an hour. We work through movement, lying down, standing, sitting and in activities.
The Technique was developed by Matthias Alexander, who was a Shakespearian Actor and who developed a problem which resulted in him loosing his voice. This problem severely affected his acting career. Medical doctors informed him that there was no physical cause, he carefully observed himself in multiple mirrors. His observations revealed he was needlessly stiffening his whole body in his preparation to speak in public. He noticed that this was a common problem that affected many other people.
He developed a technique to change his habits enabling him to give better performances on stage. He went on to apply his technique to his students who suffered from the same affliction. By working with his hands on the neck, back and spine, this technique helped his students to release tension in their bodies, and facilitate freedom of movement.
The Alexander Technique has become a trustworthy and well-known technique widely practised in theatre, music and dance. Today it is recognized to be an alternative medicine and helps many people in all aspects of life.
