Why We Need it

In young children we frequently see an alertness and poise that allows them to sit, stand and move gracefully and without strain. Yet rarely do we see the same poise continuing into adult life. Most of us have developed habits which interfere with our natural co-ordination and functioning. We have become disconnected and find ourselves reacting automatically in ways which are frequently harmful to our well-being and reduce our effectiveness in whatever we do.

The intergration of our systems as a whole is primarily affected by our head, neck and back co-ordination.

When we interfere with this we create distortion and strain throughout the organism and we can be said to be misusing ourselves.

The results of this misuse may be experienced as specific symptoms including headaches, backache, stiff neck and shoulders, or more generally as a lack of poise, lack of vitality and a sense of being 'out of touch' with the body. Also since the mind and body are part of one system, lack of physical poise can affect our state of mind and our ability to cope with life.

People learning the technique come from all walks of life and may be motivated to undertake a series of lessons because of particular problems or simply from the desire to improve awareness and co-ordination.

Along with verbal instruction, Alexander teachers will use their hands to help bring about a better co-ordination in the pupil who is then able to recognise a better use of themselves. They are taught consciously to refrain from habitual patterns of interference and to allow a better functioning to take place. Pupils are also encouraged to examine and change the way they react to the various stimuli of life, so as to have more choice in how they respond, both physically and mentally.

Benefits of the Technique

The Alexander Technique can help with aches and pains due to misuse and improve physical and mental health.

What Happens in the Treatment Room?

Working with simple activities such as walking, getting in and out of a chair or lying down, the teacher will use his or her hands to guide whilst simultaneously giving verbal instruction. Pupils become more aware of unnecessary habitual tension, and learn consciously to co-operate with more natural and co-ordinated use of themselves. Once the pupil has sufficient mastery of the principles, some teachers may also look at particular activities such as working at a desk, doing the housework or playing a musical instrument.

Although some benefit can be derived from taking just a few lessons, a longer course is required for pupils to learn to apply the Alexander Technique for themselves. A fountation course of 20 or 30 lessons is often recommended. As with any learning experience, progress will vary according to individual aptitude and commitment, and the teacher and the pupil can determine the actual number of lessons.

Most people start with a few lessons and see how the technique suits them and how they get on with the particular teacher, and this is usually the simplest approach. Some teachers also give introductory talks and courses.

Contact

Appointments can be made by telephoning Reception at the Health Hydro on 01793 465629.