York Clinic

Alexander Technique



ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE: REDUCES TENSION, ENHANCES VITALITY.

The Alexander Technique teaches people in practical ways, to do any activity with less effort, enhancing awareness and changing poor postural habits that cause tension and pain.  This can restore poise, freedom of movement, and a balance of mind and body.                  

It helps millions of people worldwide, to naturally overcome or prevent: back, neck and shoulder pain; muscle tension; R.S.I. symptoms; poor posture; anxiety and stress-related problems; breathing and vocal difficulties; Parkinson's disease; arthritis; and it is also  helpful during and after pregnancy.

                                                                                                                                                          You You can use the Technique to ensure you do any activity with least tension,  e.g.working at   a computer, teaching, playing sports, running, walking, cycling, digging the garden, lifting  and carrying children etc.                                                                                      

                                                                                                                                                                                            Individual lessons ensure that your particular needs are addressed.                          Lessons last for 45 mins.  Initial consultation lasrs for 1 hour.

                                                                                                                                                             What happens in a lesson? The teacher uses gentle hands-on guidance and verbal explanation to help you to recognise and release unnecessary tension, finding ease and balance within yourself in simple movements, (e.g. sitting, standing, walking or bending), and in specific activities (e.g. playing an instrument, teaching, working at a computer etc.)  Part of a lesson may include lying on a table. This allows for maximum support and relief for the back, while the teacher uses gentle manipulation to help release tight connective tissue and joints.                                                                                                                                                                                    No No special equipment is required. Just wear loose, comfortable, everyday clothes. 

How many lessons are required? After an initial Introductory lesson, I recommend about six lessons at close intervals e.g. one per week, to become familiar with habits and understand how the Technique can be successfully applied in daily life.  After this, l may recommend more lessons., depending on individual needs.

What students say: 'I feel lighter, more poised.'  'Working at the computer no longer gives me headaches.'  'I no longer suffer debilitating neck and shoulder pain.'  'Walking is now a pleasurable experience, whereas before I was in constant pain'.  'My energy levels have improved greatly'.  'I find it really helps me deal with stress'.

Recent Clinical Research:  British Medical Journal, Aug. 2008:                                     'Lessons in the Alexander Technique have long term benefits for chronic back pain'

To find out more: go to the website of the Alexander Technique: www.stat.org.uk