What is the Alexander Technique?
‘The great phase in Man’s development is when he passes from subconscious to conscious control of his mind and body’ - F.M. Alexander: ‘Man’s Supreme Inheritance’
Frederick Matthias Alexander (b. 1869) was an actor who developed a technique to cope with the problems he was facing when performing and reciting. He observed that he held undue tension, namely in his head and neck, whenever he started to perform. This led to hoarseness and often complete voice loss. In essence, the Alexander Technique is a pragmatic and practical approach to dealing with habitual responses of the mind and body. Through the Technique, the individual finds a more efficient way of being, bringing about a sense of freedom and renewed energy.
How Can it Help Me?
As your teacher I will observe you carrying out your everyday activities - sitting, standing, walking, speaking, lying down - and help you to do these with less effort. By using my hands, I will be able to pick up on imperceptible responses to stimuli, whether the stimulus is a mental or physical one.
Having lessons has been proven to help with a wide range of problems, including:
Pain
Performance - Singing, Acting, Dancing, Sport
Stress/Mental Health
Posture
Lessons will last 45 minutes.