The Alexander Technique is famous for helping with back and neck problems, posture, acting skills and musical performance. Millions of people of all ages and levels of fitness have learned the Technique for over a hundred years.
My back feels so free and relaxed… I feel much more centred and calm.
Sue, retired therapist
Learning it gives you a totally new experience of yourself. Having a lesson, you are guided by gentle, understanding hands, while standing, moving to your seat, walking or lying on a padded table. The teacher explains how to cooperate and learn. Frequently said as the lesson ends
I feel more relaxed – calm – put together – taller – a sense of well being – lighter – softened – more aware
Recent research: A pain in the neck!
A 2015 study funded by Arthritis Research UK, found that after 20 A T lessons participants’ neck pain had lessened by nearly a third at the end of the trial, and significantly less pain than those who had received usual GP-led care during the study.
(The ‘usual care’ included NHS tests and treatment that became necessary medication.)
The Alexander Technique lessons enabled participants to make beneficial long-term changes to the way they carried out their everyday activities such as working at a computer, walking, sitting or standing. At the end of the trial, 1 year after lessons began, they were still enjoying the same pain reduction that they did at the end of the trial 7 months before.
The results also showed a significant increase in people’s knowledge and ability to manage their own condition following Alexander lessons, and that this increase was associated with a greater reduction in pain and incapacity.
BMJ 2008 Low back pain
Results of a sizeable study on low back pain and the Alexander Technique was reported in the British Medical Journal of August 2008. The study showed that taking Alexander Technique lessons from a qualified teacher has long term benefits for people suffering low back pain. Relief from pain was felt after only 6 lessons, when daily walking exercise was practised. More lasting benefits were experienced in the group receiving 24 lessons.
“Long term benefits” means that you acquire self-help skills and awareness by learning the Alexander Technique. You can use these for the rest of your life in many areas of living, working and ageing. For further information see STAT research.
Learning AT helps you naturally overcome complaints like:
- Back, neck and joint pain
- Muscle tension and stiffness
- Arthritis
- Scoliosis
- Repetitive Strain Injury
- Headaches
- Breathing difficulties
- Stress and related problems
- Poor posture
- Shyness and anxiety
Learning the Technique helps you create
- Connectedness between your body and mind
- Poise and movement awareness
- Self-empowerment
- Strength and flexibility
- Back care and self care
- Calmness and centredness
- Balanced effort in music, drama and sport
- Insight in Yoga, Pilates, meditation or Martial Arts
- Coping with serious illness, such as MS, ME, or Parkinson’s
- Managing depression
- Relaxation skills