What Is Alexander Technique?

The Alexander Technique is a discipline in the field of alternative medicine that focuses on fostering and developing the coordination between body and mind as a means of addressing a wide variety of problems, ranging from general issues with physical and psychological health to narrowly defined difficulties, specifically in the field of the performing arts.

History

The Alexander Technique was first developed in the 1890s by F. Mathias Alexander, a Shakespearean actor who was experiencing chronic problems with stage fright, breathing, and hoarseness of the voice. When medical professionals were unable to pinpoint a cause for his problems, Alexander began to examine patterns of muscular tension in his upper body for clues. He determined certain strategies to maintain his spinal alignment and relax his upper body muscles alleviated his issues over time, and thus the technique was born.

Basic Premises

According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, today's incarnation of the Alexander Technique comprises an education system designed to "improve posture and movement" and "use muscles efficiently." Practitioners focus on 'sensory appreciation,' which is the process of recognizing and rehabilitating detrimental habits. This is accomplished through 'inhibition' or a conscious choice to be aware of such habits and address them each time they manifest themselves. This entire process constitutes the development of 'psycho-physical unity,' which represents a harmony between mind and body.

Claimed Benefits

Following Alexander's own experience, proponents of the Alexander Technique claim that it is effective for regaining freedom of movement, addressing poor posture, and alleviating recurrent back pain. Practitioners dedicated specifically to the performance arts industry claim that the technique is particularly useful for enhancing vocal abilities; it ostensibly allows for superior alignment of the vocal cords, increasing air flow, which in turn has a positive affect on control over volume and tone. As an extension of its air-flow regulating properties, the technique has been used as a treatment for stress, asthma, tuberculosis, and post-traumatic stress disorder, among other maladies.

Criticism

Because Alexander Technique falls under the umbrella of alternative rather than traditional medicine, patients in countries where medical care is subsidized must pay for their own treatment. Because the technique is so dependent on hands-on instruction, the process can be quite expensive. Moreover, the technique cannot cure many of medical conditions that it treats.

Scientific Evidence

Several controlled, scientific studies have yielded results suggesting that the Alexander Technique is an effective treatment. One such study, published in the "British Medical Journal" in 2008, found that "one to one lessons in the Alexander technique from registered teachers have long term benefits for patients with chronic back pain."