This technique aims to improve posture and reduce and prevent back and neck problems, but how does it work?
Alexander technique is, quite rightly, described as a ‘breath of fresh air’ by many who try it. It combines a therapist’s gentle touch with talking, and looks at basic everyday activities, like sitting standing and walking, so the therapist can assess what’s happening in your body when you move and what may need to be worked on.
As it is so tailored to the individual, there is no one-size-fits-all recipe, and so how many 30-45 minute sessions you need is really up to you. You could have a few, you could go for a session the way others go to the gym – it’s your call! It is recommended however that, where budget and time permit, you try to have one session a week, or fortnightly.
Teacher Agata Maj says: ‘The Alexander Technique is massage, but so much more too. It’s almost like a form of meditation, giving you the lifelong tools to go away and start doing everything in a better way, from sitting to sleeping! I often tell my clients that it’s like an instructor giving somebody lessons, so they can go off and drive a car by themselves.’
According to Agata, there are five key things the Alexander technique can help with:
- Posture
Most of us are tied to sedentary office jobs where we spend most of the day slouching. This teaches you to ‘undo’ habits that might be upsetting your natural poise – leading to better coordination. You’ll end up walking a lot taller – and probably feeling more confident, too.
- Breathing
It helps you breathe better (which helps with, er, just about everything!), as it liberates the mobility of your spine, and your ribs. Often, people don’t realise they were breathing incorrectly until they start these massages – and feel the difference.
- Pain
Alexander technique can help with lower back pain, but not only that. It also helps with a host of muscular or skeletal problems, like repetitive strain injuries (RSI), frozen shoulder and arthritis, as well as the stiffness and other unwanted by-products created by these conditions.
- Performing
If you sing/act/dance etc for a living, you probably already know that this technique helps tremendously with self-expression, alertness and projection – but it’s equally beneficial for anyone who has to regularly present, such as business presentations, or teaching a lesson.
- The individual
Besides everything else, this technique is a wonderful tool for self-development. Many say it helps them feel like they’re more in control of their lives, calmer and generally happier. What’s not to love?!