Who can benefit?
Taking lessons may help to prevent or alleviate conditions such as chronic back pain, neck and shoulder tension, stress, RSI, breathing disorders, high blood pressure and digestive problems arising from excess tension and poor co-ordination. But anyone who wants to improve their general health and well-being can benefit from the Technique.
Here are some comments from my pupils:
- 'It's changed the way I think...' Wendy, charity worker.
- 'I feel as though I've got my body back.' Hilary, physiotherapist
- 'You have wonderful hands; as I said, I would like to take them home with me...' Ruth, retired
- 'I wanted to learn the Alexander Technique to improve my riding. Also, when I groom for my husband when he does show driving, I have to stand still for long periods of time and this really made my back ache. The Alexander Technique has certainly helped my riding, especially on endurance rides ... the general improvements in posture and muscle tone really help. As for the standing, I was amazed at how I should be standing (as opposed to how I used to stand), and provided I remember to 'stand correctly', my back is fine.' Alison, rider and IT/telecoms professional
- 'Considering that in May [seven months ago], I could barely run and thought I had arthritis in my hand, things have improved dramatically thanks to my Natural Running Course and your lessons. I was even told today that I was more relaxed than I had been six months ago.' Paul, IT professional
- '[After the first lesson], I felt as though I'd lost about a stone in weight, I felt so light!' Caron, accountancy tutor.
- '[I am] still thinking of my directions and doing the lying down, [I] will never forget the AT!!! To be honest, I think all those lessons will stay with me forever! Those early lessons with you, Helen, were a real turning point for me.' Jan, mental health nurse/property developer.
Other specific benefits reported by pupils include:
- Easing of chronic pain in the lower back, neck, arms and shoulders, with the effects lasting several days after a lesson. After six months, freedom from pain for the first time in several years.
- Responding more calmly to stressful situations.
- Left leg and hip, initially stiff and painful after an accident some years previously, have (after 15 lessons) the same freedom of movement as the right leg.
From its earliest days, the Alexander Technique has also been widely used by actors, dancers and musicians to overcome stage fright and enhance performance. It is also used in sports, both to prevent injury and improve skills.
The Alexander Technique can also be useful in a work situation. It helps you to organise yourself and your environment to work more efficiently and in greater comfort. The ability to stay calm and articulate when giving a presentation, or when dealing with colleagues or clients on the phone or in meetings is another benefit.