The Alexander Technique is a form of therapy that addresses bad postural habits that may have developed over a lifetime of stress. The technique encourages the patient to move their body in a relaxed and comfortable way that minimises stress on joints and muscles. The technique can help alleviate the symptoms of back pain, joint pain, headaches etc.
The Alexander technique is an educational physical therapy rather than a purely relaxing one. The patient will experience relaxation as their uncomfortable and often debilitating symptoms become alleviated over time.
The Alexander Technique is a process taught by the practitioner that corrects the posture and effectively enables the patient to ‘unlearn’ bad physical and postural habits. The patient will learn to stop using unnecessary and inappropriate movements and muscles and thereby gain relief from a whole range of symptoms.
Patients are proven to experience increased freedom of movement, freedom from joint and muscle pain, and increased levels of self confidence. The Alexander Technique is particularly useful for patients experiencing back pain or headaches caused by poor posture when sitting, standing or walking. During a session the practitioner will use guidance and light hand contact to direct the patient into new postures and to encourage the patient to learn new ways to move that use the body’s muscles more effectively. The practitioner will devise a series of exercises, core muscle strengthening, and stretches which have a transformative effect on how the patient uses their body.
The technique was devised in the 1890’s by Frederick Alexander, a professional actor. He was plagued by hoarseness and breathing difficulties that impacted on his ability to perform. He developed the innovative idea of adjusting his posture to a degree that would alleviate his symptoms. The technique that began as a personal tool for one man to continue his career has grown into a worldwide movement with Alexander Technique websites dedicated to developing the principles.
Most practitioners listed on this page are UK based, and most are members of STAT the Society of Teachers of Alexander Technique, which is the world’s oldest and largest professional body of Alexander Technique teacher.