How you can benefit

As we grow up, we naturally learn about posture, movement and co-ordination but we can pick up bad habits along the way. If these habits continue through everyday activity, they can cause pain, strain and fatigue.

All too often, we just accept these habits as part of normal life but it need not be that way. The Alexander Technique teaches you to improve the way you use your body so that by stopping doing the wrong thing, the right thing does itself. It is not a question of doing exercises but is more about our thoughts - noticing the tension and then thinking to our muscles to do less.

People generally come for one or more of the following reasons (pain management, posture and/or performance) but these are by no means exclusive:

Pain Management

Many people come to prevent a wide range of symptoms associated with pain or to relieve tension. Examples of where the Technique can help you look after yourself include: back, neck or shoulder pain, Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI),recurring headaches, arthritis and anxiety/stress.

Posture

Others wish to achieve better posture and poise, both to look good and to alleviate discomfort caused by poor posture. Pregnant women can benefit greatly, not least because they can learn to help prevent back ache through poor posture. It is also superb preparation for labour, both for the woman and for her partner. The ante-natal page has more information.

Performance

Many musicians, actors, sports enthusiasts and dancers apply this practical technique to develop skills such as movement, breathing and voice control, and to help with performance anxiety.

The Alexander Technique is also for anyone who wants to get the best out of themselves, now and in the long term.