What is the Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique is a preventative educational method that promotes improvement in the coordination of both mind and body through reeducation of the neuromuscular system. Its purpose is to help us identify and release unnecessary tension, optimizing the use of our selves in both everyday and professional activities.
Through conscious, gradual work, the Alexander Technique teaches us to recognize habits related to posture or movement which may be interfering with our natural functioning. By replacing these habits with a more efficient organization of our organism, we can promote a balanced posture, freer breathing, and more integrated movement.
The benefits associated with the Technique include a reduction in back and neck pain, relief of excessive muscular tension, and improvements in coordination, balance and flexibility, as well as an increase in body awareness, concentration and general wellbeing. Furthermore, practice of the Technique can contribute to a decrease in problems relating to stress, such as high blood pressure and chronic fatigue.
Internationally recognized for its effectiveness, the Alexander Technique has more than a century of history behind it and is taught in schools such as the Royal College of Music in London, the Julliard School in New York, and the Estudio de Ópera de Bellas Artes in Mexico City, among many others. It is especially valued among performing artists - musicians, actors, dancers - but is also widely used by professionals in diverse fields who wish to optimize their movement and prevent injury.
Those wishing to become certified as teachers of the Alexander Technique must complete a professional training course of three years full-time, with a minimum of 1,600 hours of classes with an accredited teacher trainer. In Mexico, the Alexander Technique School Mexico (Escuela de Técnica Alexander México) has offered this programme since 2016, and is endorsed by the international standards set by ATAS (Alexander Technique Affiliated Societies).
Who is the Alexander Technique for?
The Alexander Technique is a valuable resource for anybody interested in optimizing the functioning of their body and mind, whether it’s to relieve discomfort, improve performance, or prevent future problems. Its comprehensive nature allows us to tackle specific health concerns as well as artistic, sporting, or personal development goals.
It is especially recommended for:
People with head, neck, back or joint pain: by identifying and eliminating poor habits in the way we use the body, it is possible to reestablish balance in the working of the musculo-skeletal system, and significantly reduce these issues.
People who are dealing with depression, stress, low self-esteem or breathing problems: the practice promotes an improved mind-body connection, allowing for a state of internal unity, emotional wellbeing and more efficient breathing to be restored.
Pregnant women: the Technique helps to consciously integrate the physical and postural changes faced in this stage of life, promoting greater comfort and wellbeing during pregnancy.
Sportspeople: the Technique helps to reach an optimal level of performance by improving flexibility, agility, muscular control, balance and coordination, at the same time as preventing injury from over-use.
Musicians, actors and dancers: a more efficient physical and technical performance can be achieved, increasing the potential for expressivity and resolving problems related to practice, excessive tension or physical wear-and-tear.
People interested in improving their quality of life: the Technique teaches tools for a more efficient use of the body, increased mental clarity and improved performance, in daily life as well as in activities requiring a high level of physical or mental effort.
In all of these cases, the Alexander Technique does not just focus on relieving symptoms, but rather in transforming the postural and movement habits which are causing problems, offering sustainable benefits over time.
What is an Alexander Technique lesson like?
Each Alexander Technique session lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour. In order to see consistent, long-lasting results, between 20 and 30 classes are recommended, depending on the needs and aims of each person.
The work takes place through a combination of verbal instructions and gentle, precise, hands-on work by the teacher. Throughout the class, students will explore everyday activities such as walking, bending, sitting, standing, breathing or speaking, as well as specific movements related to their work or interests - such as singing, acting, playing an instrument, dancing, or practicing a sport.
The aim is for the student to identify and recognize patterns in their use of their body that are causing tension, stiffness or unnecessary effort, and to learn to replace these patterns with freer, more coordinated patterns of movement. This process not only improves posture and balance, but also creates space for easier breathing, improved mental clarity and general wellbeing.
An Alexander Technique lesson is never invasive or painful. The teacher uses their hands in a gentle way to facilitate a safe and pleasant experience. Even from the first session, many students experience a sense of physical lightness and mental calm, which is deepened with continued practice.