Alexander technique educates you on how to use your body more effectively to reduce pain and discomfort.
Who started Alexander technique?
Not many people know but the Alexander technique was started by an Australian! Frederick Matthias Alexander was born in Wynyard, Tasmania in 1869 and spent much of his early life in Melbourne. F. M was a successful Shakespearean actor but developed vocal difficulties at the height of his career with acute hoarseness whenever he tried to project his voice. When the doctors he visited couldn’t find out what was wrong, Alexander set about a period of self-discovery to discover for himself what he was doing that might be causing his problems.
What does the It involve?
Through this intense period of self-study, Alexander identified that his habitual patterns of use were the root cause of his problems and when he inhibited his usual bad habits and instead directed himself to consciously use himself in a different way, his vocal issues were much improved. This mental process of inhibition and direction helped to bring him into better coordination and balance, gradually diminishing his bad habits and replacing them with new, constructive and consciously controlled habits. It is these processes that are taught in Alexander technique lessons so that pupils can develop the skills to rid themselves of poor postural habits, improve their posture, move better and lead a more comfortable life.
How do you learn the Alexander technique?
The Alexander technique is taught using verbal instruction and hands-on guidance and lessons are usually taught in front of a mirror to allow for objective feedback. It does not rely on any equipment but gives pupils the knowledge and the tools to improve themselves, without manipulation, so the results are empowering and sustainable. Applying the technique to simple everyday activities such as sitting and standing are usual to begin with and some time is spent on a table, lying in a supine position. Pupils are able to wear their usual clothing. There is no homework with the Alexander technique as the lessons will develop the mental practices of inhibition and direction over time and the effects of which will last a lifetime.
Some of the benefits
Through practising self observation and mental directions, students of the Alexander technique will enjoy the following benefits:
- Improved body awareness
- Reduced pain
- Increased coordination
- Better flexibility and balance
- Control of voice and breath
- Ease of movement
- Decreased physical tension
- Improved posture
Melbourne Natural Therapies
Alexander Technique Melbourne
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