The Alexander Tecnhique is a somatic modality, typically used in, but not limited to, the world of the performing arts, that helps to align the body for optimal function and vitality. Created by Frederick Matthias Alexander, an Australian actor in the1890's, the method focuses on the relationship between the head, neck and spine. The goal of the Alexander Technique is to repattern movements in the body, alleviating tension that can inhibit the natural state of balance. Primarily, the Alexander Technique is an educational process that creates awareness in the student of how to most efficiently and effectively use the body in day-to-day activities. According to a study by the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, the Alexander Technique was one of the most frequently practiced movement therapies in 2007.
Through observation of the relationship between the head, neck and torso, the individual is able to assess patterns that may compress the spine and create musculoskeletal imbalances. Freeing the mechanism of the primary control allows the natural postures of the body and its relationship to gravity--a natural upward lift of the torso--to return.
Step 1
The teacher will observe you walk, sit and move to gain information about your movement patterns.
Step 2
Through verbal and tactile cues the teacher will guide the student to correct patterns of use by lengthening and widening the torso as an aspect of primary control, which has to do with the relationship of the head to the neck and spine.
Step 3
The cues given by the teacher create a sense of expansion and release in the body, allowing the student to feel free from habitual patterns and eliciting a heightened sense of kinesthetic awareness and coordination.
Step 4
The recommended number of sessions is 30, each lasting 30 to 45 minutes.
Member Comments