Alexander technique

What is the Alexander Technique?

The human body is a remarkable instrument, but modern life takes its toll. Over the years we develop habits of movement and tension that can lead to backaches, headaches, stiff necks and a host of other complaints. All too often we just accept them as part of normal life.

But we needn’t do so. The Alexander Technique aims to unravel the years of tense muscles and poor postural habits we all accumulate and helps restore natural balance.

The Technique is a gentle yet powerful method of changing patterns of behaviour that cause unnecessary wear and strain on muscles and joints, giving our minds and bodies a chance to work more freely.

It teaches you how to avoid excessive strain and tension in everyday activities such as standing, sitting, bending, using a computer – or even eating and drinking!

How can the Alexander Technique help me?

The Technique is of enormous benefit to everyone, even those who feel perfectly fit and completely free from aches and pains. However, many people come because of pain, having often exhausted every other avenue.

Learning the Technique helps:

• Achieve good posture
• Breathing, calmness and confidence
• Agility
• Increase height and stature

Learning the Technique can relieve:

• Back pain and neck ache
• Postural problems
• Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
• Breathing difficulties
• Recurring headaches
• Stress and anxiety
• Pregnancy related discomfort

What happens during a lesson?

Lessons are usually taught on a one-to-one basis. With the aid of your teacher you will start to explore your current pattern of ‘use’ – how you stand, sit, move, eat and so on – with the aim of bringing your awareness of any unnecessary tension you bring to the activity.

Whilst early lessons concentrate on the physical aspects of movement, later lessons will incorporate an exploration of how your mental and emotional ‘reactions’ to everyday life can bring about harmful physical habits in your body.

What are the qualifications and codes of practice?

The Alexander Technique can only be taught by teachers who qualify by completing a three-year certified training course. Our Alexander teacher have completed this course, are members of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT) and adhere to its code of ethics and conduct.

Where can I learn more?

For more information about the Alexander Technique, please visit www.stat.org.uk the official website of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT).

Our Alexander Technique teacher

Ann O’Brien BA MSTAT
Tel: 01223 870539
Email: ann.o.brien@btinternet.com
www.alexander-in-cambridge.co.uk