Introduction to the Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is a learned method to change postural and movement dysfunction and improve the patient's effectiveness in all areas of life. It engages the individual's mind and body to reduce and eliminate body misuse in daily activities. In a series of one-on-one lessons with a certified teacher, a student of the Alexander Technique develops the skills to execute any action with minimized strain and maximized balance. The result is decreased pain and optimal functional mobility .

BENEFITS
The Technique has been found to significantly

reduce pain
improve overall functional strength and mobility
modify stress reponses
enhance breathing coordination

THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE PROFESSIONAL
A AmSAT-certified Alexander Technique teacher is a highly trained professional who has completed a 1600-hour training program over a minimum of three years. The training's emphasis is on observation and modification of human movement patterns to identify and eliminate sources of movement dysfunction. In a process of psycho-physical reeducation, the teacher uses specific clinical skills, including manual guidance and verbal cues, to improve each student's postural and movement patterns.

HISTORY OF THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE
F.M. Alexander (1869-1955) developed the Alexander Technique more than a century ago. An Australian actor who lost his voice while reciting, he observed misuse of the body as a fundamental cause of maladaptive functioning. The approach he created to solve his own physical problem focuses on correcting misuse of the interrelationship and neuromuscular activity of the head, neck and spine.

RESULTS OF A UNIQUE SELF-MANAGEMENT PROCESS
The Alexander Technique has been beneficial to people with a wide variety of neurological and musculoskeletal problems. The Technique provides an index for observing and improving human movement and a means to gain proficiency in basic movement skills such as walking, bending, squatting, lunging, moving in bed or transferring to and from seated surfaces. The Technique also addresses habits of muscular response by offering a unique approach to neuromuscular re-education. The result is a more upright posture and less muscular tension in the neck, back and shoulders.

In the case of repetitive stress or traumatic injury, a primary benefit is that students learn proper use of the peripheral joints involved in the injury. Most importantly, they learn a unique self-management process which directly affects the function of those joints: an understanding of balance and dynamic postural control.