"It gives all the things we have been looking for in a system of physical education: relief from strain due to maladjustment, and consequent improvement in physical and mental -health; . . . and along with this, a general heightening of consciousness on all levels . . . We cannot ask more from any system of physical education; or if we seriously desire to alter human beings in a desirable direction, can we ask any less."

Aldous Huxley, Ends and Means

THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

The Alexander Technique teaches us to use ourselves more effectively in daily life.

WHY WE NEED IT

In young children we frequently see an alertness and poise that allows them to sit, stand and move gracefully without strain. Yet rarely do we see that same poise continuing into adult life. Most of us have developed habits which interfere with our natural co-ordination and functioning. We 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 integration of our system as a whole is primarily determined by the co-ordination of our head, neck, and back. When we interfere with this subtle relationship we create distortion and strain throughout the organism and we can be said to be mis-using ourselves.

The result of this misuse may be experienced as specific symptoms such as headache, backache, stiff neck, and shoulders or more generally as a lack of poise, lack of vitality, or a sense of being "out of touch" with our body. Since the body and mind are part of one system, lack of physical poise can effect 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 take a series of lessons because of particular problems or simply from a desire to improve awareness and co- ordination.

HOW IS IT TAUGHT?

Along with verbal instruction, Alexander teachers will use their hands to help bring about a better co-ordination in their pupil. As pupils become more aware of what constitutes a better use of themselves, they are taught to consciously refrain from habitual patterns of interference and to allow a better functioning to,take place. Pupils develop their ability to attend to the way they react to the various stimuli of life and to change so as to have more choice in how they respond – both physically and mentally.

BENEFITS OF THE TECHNIQUE

The benefits can include relief from aches and pains associated with misuse, improved physical and mental health, enhanced performance and improved appearance.

FINDING A TEACHER

It is important to consult a properly trained teacher. He or she will have had a three year full-time training and should be a member of The Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT). A full list of recognised teachers can be obtained from STAT (see below).

THE LESSON FORMAT

The format will vary from teacher to teacher but the Technique is usually taught on a one-to-one basis. Lessons last between thirty, and forty minutes. No special clothing is required provided that movement is not restricted.

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 their pupil whilst simultaneously giving verbal instruction. Pupils become more aware of unnecessary habitual tension, and learn to consciously cooperate with a more natural and co-ordinated use of themselves. Once the pupil has sufficient mastery of the principles, teachers may also look at particular relevant activities such as working at a desk, doing housework, or playing a musical instrument,

FREQUENCY OF LESSONS

In lessons we are confronted by the force of our habits. It may help at the beginning to have two or more lessons per week. As the pupil becomes more at home with the principles, the frequency can be reduced to once a week, or less. There is considerable flexibility and details should be discussed and agreed with your teacher.

THE COST OF LESSONS Lessons are normally between £20 and £45 depending on the teacher and the location.

INTRODUCTIONS TO THE TECHNIQUE

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

BACKGROUND TO THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

F Matthias Alexander (1869-1955) was an Australian actor and reciter who became hoarse during performances to such an extent that his career was threatened. He came to realise that his problems were caused by the way he interfered with his natural co-ordination and functioning, and that he must somehow learn to prevent this misuse of himself.

After several years of patient observation and experiment, Alexander developed a new approach to co-ordination and movement. In doing so he not only cleared up his vocal problems, but also brought about remarkable improvement in his general health. He went on to teach his method to others.

Alexander moved to London in 1904 and continued to develop and teach the Technique in England and America until his death in 1955. He started a three-year teacher training programme in 1931. There are now 3,000 teachers of the Technique worldwide and many doctors and specialists refer patients for lessons. Research in England, North America, Denmark and Australia has demonstrated the effectiveness of the work.

The outstanding value of the Technique in freeing and enhancing performance has been recognised in the theatre world since the beginning of the century. Most of the major music and drama colleges have Alexander teachers on their staff.

THE SOCIETY OF TEACHERS OF THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

The Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT) was formed in 1958 and is widely recognised as the official representative body. As the practice of Alexander's work has spread internationally, STAT has acted as a central body for the formation of similar affiliated organisations in Australia, North America, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Israel, Spain, South Africa and Switzerland.

FURTHER INFORMATION

A full list of qualified teachers can be obtained by sending a large (A5) s.a.e. to: The Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique, 1st floor, Linton house, 39-51 Highgate Road, London NW5 1RS, or on their website: www.stat.org.uk.