More than 100 years ago, F. Matthias Alexander discovered that it was possible to relearn the graceful ways of moving we had as children, and to therefore improve the way our bodies function.1 Alexander first observed and developed the principles of what would come to be called the Alexander Technique between 1890 and 1900.2
As an actor, Alexander found that recurring throat and voice problems were affecting his recitations.3 He also found that people could hear him gasping or sucking in air through his mouth. After observing that his voice was better when he rested after becoming hoarse from reciting, he assumed that it was something he was doing that caused his problems. By observing himself repeatedly in a mirror, Alexander discovered that he pulled back his head, depressed his larynx, and sucked in breath through his mouth when he recited.4 He also found that he could prevent this to some degree, and concluded that the way he used his head and neck was affecting the functioning of his vocal chords and respiration. Further observation led him to conclude that the problem extended beyond his head and neck, and was an integrated pattern of coordination involving his entire body. Alexander realized that it was necessary to change the way he used his body in order to relieve pressure and improve performance.5
The Alexander Technique helps people release unwanted muscular tension6 that has accumulated over the course of their stress-filled lives. Alexander Technique teachers help students correct their posture and align their bodies. This, in turn, improves ease of movement, balance, and stamina, and lessens muscle tension.7 As people learn the technique, they can actually change the way they walk, the amount of tension in their muscles, and their posture. These changes can result in the achievement of optimal health for both mind and body. Many times back pain, excess tension, headaches, and lack of coordination can be remedied by learning the Alexander Technique.8
The Alexander Technique is not therapy or treatment; it is taught in lessons by trained teachers. Students learn how to coordinate their body movements to do normal things in a practical way.9 During an Alexander lesson, the teacher will watch how a student moves and assist him or her in understanding the way movement relates to physical symptoms. The student will be taught - with words and touch - to approach movement differently.10
An Alexander Technique teacher can help students identify areas of tension and experience their bodies in a new way.11 It is not unusual for people to experience stress reduction, relief from neck or back pain, better balance and coordination, or reduction in pain from carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, or fibromyalgia12 as a result of Alexander Technique lessons. Proper use of the body can facilitate freedom of movement, lengthen the spine, support the head without neck strain, and improve coordination. Students can learn to release muscular tension and restore their bodies’ natural balance and poise.13
The Alexander Technique shows students that when there is a stimulus, there is an immediate response.14 The technique works to insert a small space of conscious awareness and thought between the stimulus and response. These spaces are called “directions” and concern the coordination of the head, neck, and body.15 As students learn to insert these directions and move differently, they may begin sitting, standing, and walking in ways that put less strain on their bones, joints, and muscles. Ideally, their bodies will work more efficiently.16 This efficiency can have many benefits, including freer movement, relief from excess tension, more comfortable posture, easier breathing, increased strength, and, most importantly, the development of skills that can be used to change habits that interfere with optimal body functioning.17
Many people who practice Alexander Technique say that they experience a feeling of lightness in their bodies. Since physical well-being and mental or emotional well-being are connected, people sometimes say that they feel calmer and happier after learning the technique.18 The changes that the technique brings about may be verifiable by looking in a mirror, by noting balance or weight changes, or by discovering an altered perception of the sound of the student’s own voice.19
If you are interested in the Alexander Technique, there are many books and websites that can give you much more detailed information. Many will even provide you with examples of exercises. You might even take a lesson or two and see for yourself what the Alexander Technique can offer you!
