The History of the Alexander Technique
and F.M. Alexander
F.M. Alexander (1869-1955), an actor who began his career as a Shakespearean orator, developed chronic laryngitis while performing. Determined to restore the full use of his voice, he carefully watched himself while speaking, and observed that undue muscular tension accounted for his vocal problem. He sought a way to eliminate that restriction. Over time, he discovered and articulated a principle that profoundly influences health and well-being: when neck tension is reduced, the head no longer compresses the spine and the spine is free to lengthen. Alexander restored his own natural capacity for ease by changing the way he thought while initiating an action. From this work on himself and others, he evolved a hands-on teaching method that encourages all the body's processes to work more efficiently - as an integrated, dynamic whole.(From the 1996 North American Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique Directory)
Alexander observed that the relationship between the head, neck and torso is primary in controlling posture, movement and function. Compressive movement habits interfere with the function of the body's ingenious design. Eliciting the primary control restores the innate postural reflex — a natural, dynamic force that counters gravity and easily guides the torso upward.
Leaders in the field of mind/body medicine and behavioral science throughout this century have supported Alexander's innovative research. Clinical studies have shown that the Technique improves breathing capacity and posture, modifies stress responses and is, for those who suffer from chronic pain, the preferred method for long-term pain relief. (From the American Society for the Alexander Technique)
Alexander observed that the relationship between the head, neck and torso is primary in controlling posture, movement and function. Compressive movement habits interfere with the function of the body's ingenious design. Eliciting the primary control restores the innate postural reflex — a natural, dynamic force that counters gravity and easily guides the torso upward.
Leaders in the field of mind/body medicine and behavioral science throughout this century have supported Alexander's innovative research. Clinical studies have shown that the Technique improves breathing capacity and posture, modifies stress responses and is, for those who suffer from chronic pain, the preferred method for long-term pain relief. (From the American Society for the Alexander Technique)
“Change involves carrying out an activity against the habit of life.” -F.M. Alexander
