Alexander Technique

Alexander Technique, devised by F M Alexander, a former Shakespearean recitalist, is a method that teaches one how to realize and overcome the limitations, mostly habituated, that exists within his/her physical movement patterns and thought process. Mr. F M Alexander actually developed these techniques primarily as a vocal training method in the early 1890s, but it was later found to influence other aspects of the human body as well, and it eventually evolved into a comprehensive psychophysical reeducation concept. In fact, it was quite a development with profound effect in medical science, something he never foresaw when he first structured his breathing reeducation concept. Now, the Alexander technique is followed by millions of people across the globe.

So, how the Alexander technique works? Alexander technique teaches one the sense of coordination to recapture his/her likely misplaced or lost natural ‘perspective’. In this technique, the trainer takes the student through simple, easy movements with gentle hands-on guidance so that the student gradually realizes the underlying, more natural coordination, which was until now impeded by the interference of on-going habits. Repeatedly performing these fundamental and natural movements suggested by Alexander technique tunes one’s internal coordination mechanism to act in the most accurate way possible, thus fashioning his/her body to respond to various real life stimuli in an efficient, non-stressful, and coordinated way possible. If properly practiced, Alexander technique definitely helps one to develop long lasting positive habitual changes.

The direct benefits of Alexander technique include comfortable movement, improved alignment and posture, increased strength and healthier breathing. According to medical researches, Alexander technique is also very much effective in dealing with excessive stress, chronic pain, and injury related issues. For the common man out there, the only aspect to take note is that it is crucial to learn the Alexander technique from an expert in the trade. As Alexander himself used to tell his students, also make it a point to read the different interpretations of Alexander techniques by pioneers who have had spent years perfecting it. A bit of introduction could surely help a novice to start the proceedings in a high note.