What is the Alexander Technique?

The Alexander Technique has been around now for over 100 years. It was 'discovered' by an Australian actor, Frederick Matthias Alexander, who suffered from persistent voice and breathing problems on stage, as well as general ill health. Obtaining very little help from conventional medicine, an absolute determination to find the real root of his problems led him to discover certain fundamental truths about human activity, co-ordination and movement. Over many years of observation of himself, he began to understand that habitual patterns of misuse involving the whole of his body and mind were the cause of his problems. Over the years he discovered how to consciously change these patterns of use and developed a Technique which not only eliminated his vocal problems, but also brought about remarkable improvements in his general health. He began teaching others and came to London in 1904, setting up a teacher training school thereafter.

F M Alexander
1869 - 1955

F M Alexander

...There is no such thing as a right position; but there is such a thing as a right direction...

We learn to stand easily at our full height. This leads to good posture, freedom of movement, easy breathing, confidence and general well-being. And when this happens we find that our back pain, neck pain, general stiffness and other disorders are relieved. It helps us to feel calmer and think more clearly. It is a tool for life.

By learning to stop interfering with our natural functioning, the Alexander Technique can help everyone to live a more balanced and fulfilling life. It is a highly practical method for self-improvement and self-help. Anyone can benefit and the Technique has been learned and used by people from all walks of life.

So often we build up unnecessary habits of muscular tension over the years. We are usually unaware of these until they cause us pain and discomfort, but every day they are stopping us moving in an effortless and dynamic way and fulfilling our true potential. The Alexander Technique helps us recognise and prevent these unnecessary tensions.

F M Alexander

...You can't do something you don't know if you keep on doing what you do know...

The Alexander Technique is a method of mental and physical re-education. It is concerned with thinking as well as activity, and it teaches us how to 'use' ourselves to best advantage in all our daily activity. It is widely recognised as an effective means of alleviating or preventing back and other muscular-skeletal pain and many other disorders.

...Change involves
carrying out an activity against the habit of life...

There have been many words written about the Alexander Technique, but most people (including me when I first started years ago) find that these only really make sense when they experience it! But in essence, the Alexander Technique is a technique that teaches us how to use our body in a more efficient and healthier way. It is taught individually and anyone can learn it.