A history and explanation of the Alexander Technique

A history and explanation of the Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is a practice developed by F. Matthias Alexander in the 1890s. The Alexander Technique is concerned with posture, alignment and how this affects our muscles, and general health and wellbeing. The history of the development of the Alexander Technique is a rather usual, but interesting, one. F. Matthias Alexander was a Shakespearean actor and orator who experienced many problems with losing his voice. Following numerous trips to the doctors he was advised that there was nothing wrong, unsatisfied Alexander took it upon himself to observe his daily actions through numerous means, including the instillation of multiple mirrors. It wasn't long before Alexander realised he was unnecessarily tightening his whole body before reciting his lines, not only was he doing this but others around him were tightening their torsos and necks with similar consequences. Letting go of the undue tension meant Alexander soon regained his voice, and no longer suffered from hoarseness.

Alexander continue his work up until his death, finding numerous links between posture/daily actions and general health, and believed that a re-training of the mind, and therefore body, could result in a much improved freedom of movement, support and co-ordination, as well as sense of wellbeing.

The Alexander Technique always begins with observation, what are we doing? How are we holding ourselves? It is about choosing not to respond habitually (as many of our habits are damaging even the way we pick up a book for example). Alexander devised four concepts of good use including: let the neck be free, the head be forward and away from the top of the spine, to let the torso lengthen, to let the legs release away from the hip joint and to let the shoulders release out to the side.

The role of an Alexander Technique therapist is to help people to learn about their own bodies, as well as teaching them the relationship between how they think and how they move. Teachers will often use props such as tables, chairs and mirrors to show the client how their current movements and posture are creating the aches and pains they are feeling. Lessons are also undertaken with teacher demonstrations, verbal instructions, homework in the form of exercises and gentle guidance with the hands (which is important to help with client know how the position should feel if undertaken correctly).

There are numerous courses available for those interested in learning about the Alexander Technique, ranging from intensive 4-5 workshops to three year courses. Training is broken down into practical work with clients and home based study, using a range of physiology and anatomy books. One of the biggest training schools in the UK is The Alexander Teacher Training School based London.

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