What is the Alexander Technique?

What is the Alexander Technique?

The Alexander Technique is not technically a massage technique, but more a technique of a way of life. Based primarily on relieving pain and discomfort through awareness of—and changes to—the body’s posture and movements, once taught it can help provide a much more stress-free life.

Who can benefit from the Alexander Technique?

Anyone who is willing to learn and apply the movements to their daily life can benefit from the Alexander technique. This includes everyone from computer users to massage therapists to sports players and more.

It is a technique that is commonly sought by people who use their hands during their work, or are stuck in a certain position for long periods of time. This can be such people as office workers whose neck and back hurt because of being stuck in a certain position at the computer all day. Many bodywork and massage therapists seek out treatment with the Alexander technique as well because they may have neck and lower back problems due to the position they stand in for long periods while treating their own patients.

How is the Alexander Technique taught?

The Alexander technique can be taught either in a group or one-on-one by the instructor. It focuses on three main points:

• Awareness
• Inhibition
• Direction

These are the three main points that the Alexander technique will stress in order to produce a better posture and more fluid movements for the body. In turn, it will create less stress and pain for the body.

By having the student watch the mirror as they make certain movements and discussing with the student any specific areas of pain, the teacher is best able to help the student learn to move differently, creating a healthier lifestyle.

How long does it take to learn the Alexander Technique?

The Alexander technique is not deemed to be a quick fix for any problems, health or otherwise. Although some patients may feel differently, and may move with less strain, after their first lesson, it is something that takes time to learn. Many patients will take classes on the Alexander technique for six months or more, and it is recommended by instructors to at least be taken for three months.