What is Alexander Technique?
Alexander technique was formulated by F. Matthias Alexander who developed these techniques to help him in his career as an actor in the late 1800s. Alexander Technique, or Alexander Therapy as it is sometimes referred to, is an educational therapy that teaches individuals how to reduce stress, tension, and pain in their bodies. Alexander technique will show you how to stop bad posture and motion habits and replace them with movements and habits that are designed to decrease pain and increase energy. Once learned, the Alexander technique is a relatively simple method of maintaining a natural, tension-free posture and is something you can do on your own.
What conditions can Alexander Technique treat?
The Alexander Technique is used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions; back and neck pain and other conditions, like exhaustion, that stem from poor posture or body movement. Often, we do not realize that our posture has such a radical effect on how our body feels. We may spend many years practicing bad posture and incorrect body movements without even knowing it. Then we are mystified by the pain that seems to be our constant companion as well as, impaired movement. Alexander technique can right the years of wrong.
There are also many instances where Alexander technique has been used as a pain management tool for those with chronic illness or disability, post surgery and/or injury rehabilitation.
As an added bonus, this therapy is used to help actors, singers, and musicians perform at peak levels by enhancing breathing and stamina.
How does Alexander Technique work?
Alexander technique teaches patients how to replace bad posture and movement habits with correct ones bringing about freer movement. This particular method of therapy requires the full cooperation of the patient. Once the technique is taught, the patient works independently toward the prize of being virtually pain free.
Alexander technique is not a symptom specific model of treatment. The goal of this therapy is to give the patients an overall feeling of wellness and renewed energy. Individuals who practice Alexander technique find themselves more alert and their performance level increased.
During a session, normally a private session lasting thirty minutes to one hour, the therapist will guide the patient in corrective movements by:
- Observation. The teacher shows which movements are detrimental to your health.
- Verbal explanation and light touch. An explanation is given as to how to change the bad habit. The therapists will show the patient how to sit, stand, lift, and move to increase mobility.
What Alexander Technique is not is a quick-fix for aches and muscles strains. Very often a patient may need several sessions in order to begin to change old habits. With patience and a mind set on achieving the goal of uninhibited range of movement, a person can, once again, become pain free.
