Used correctly, our bodies are able to sit, stand, move and breathe with confidence, vitality and poise. As infants, we figured out the best way to support our own weight and
get about with efficiency and skill. Over time however, many of us begin to
unwittingly misuse our bodies. This misuse limits our potential and is often indicated by pain,
fatigue, tension or a proclivity to injuries.
Alexander
Technique teachers use verbal instruction and gentle hands-on guidance to help students avoid
unnecessary effort and to experience natural, postural support. As students
learn to
independently apply basic principles of movement, bearing and coordination, many types of discomfort and stress are relieved and new heights
of achievement are reached.
The Technique was developed by an Australian actor who suffered
from recurrent vocal failure. As medical attention provided only temporary relief,
F. M. Alexander (1869-1955) began a process of self- experimentation with the aid of
mirrors. This led to the observation of certain habitual behaviors and
mannerisms which, he inferred, where interfering with his voice production. Learning to stop
these actions led to the development of a technique for changing interfering
habits and the discovery of a way to promote better self-use. This
involves maintaining the natural, key relationship between the head, neck and
trunk, which Alexander named the primary control. The noticeable improvement
in his skill and overall health led others to seek his help. Alexander soon
discovered that the best way to teach others what he had learned was to use his
hands to prevent students from their habitual actions and guide them to a new experience.
Over time, the new experience can help restore the natural poise which is, as
Alexander put it, our Supreme Inheritance.
In
1904, Alexander moved to England where his technique was endorsed by
the medical establishment. It gained popularity amongst leading
performing artists and intellectuals who appreciated the technique's
potential to promote alertness and self-control. His students John Dewey,
George Bernard Shaw and Aldous Huxley were all enthusiastic advocates. To meet the growing demand, Alexander began training others to teach his technique in London and the United States. Today there are dozens of teacher training schools and thousands of teachers worldwide.
