What is the Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is an approach that addresses body posturing problems. The holistic intervention seeks to improve posture as it teaches patients how to move in ways that are naturally conducive to good health. The ultimate objective is to reduce soreness and tension in the muscles, alleviating strain on the body as a whole.

The effects of poor posture on a person’s health are remarkable, and it can be very difficult to treat because body positioning is deeply seeding in the habit center of the brain. Retraining the patient to move differently takes great practice, and teaching a patient to retrain body positioning is very tricky. Movements are mostly performed on a conscious level but posturing is subconscious.

Priorperceptive Realm

Sensory systems are complex, especially when it comes to movement. The vestibular system relates to movement, including ways that the brain processes movement. The priorperceptive realm deals with body positioning, which is much more complex. Body positioning relates to the way the individual interacts with her environment on a conscious and on a subconscious level.

Body awareness is a critical aspect of the Alexander Technique. People who have sensory dysfunction often lack a sense of body awareness. This can result in difficulty navigating their surroundings and it can make coordinating complex motor activities impossible. The Alexander Technique seeks to correct body posturing and movements, creating a deeper awareness.

Fredrick Matthias Alexander

Fredrick Matthias Alexander is the brain behind the Alexander Technique. Fredrick was an actor who had difficulty performing because he would consistently lose his voice while he was on stage. He began to notice that his posture had a negative impact on his voice. Improper alignment appeared to impair his voice, particularly misalignment in the neck, back and head.

The misalignment in the head, back and neck can lead to improper breathing. Poor breathing can lead to trouble with vocal projection. Theories behind the Alexander Technique are somewhat similar to chiropractic medicine since the focus is on proper body alignment.

The Alexander Technique

The Complete Guide to The Alexander Technique is an outstanding resource for anyone interested in learning about this approach. Included in the guide is a list of problems that may be addressed using the Alexander Technique, and the list surpasses vocal problems.

• Injuries from straining
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Discomfort from sitting too long
• Stiff neck
• Muscle tension
• Back problems
• Problems with motor coordination

It is important to note that many problems that arise from poor body posturing do not develop overnight. Changing the automatic movements and postures takes some time but the results are reported to be very promising.

Natural Reflexes

Consider the Alexander Technique as an approach to unlearn poor behaviors that have developed over time. One of the most appealing aspects of the approach is that it appeals to the body’s natural reflexes. Patients learn how to follow their bodies’ natural ways of moving and posturing rather than fighting against them.