We all tend to make more effort than is necessary in everyday
activities. Whether this extra effort remains below the level
of our awareness or develops into something more aggravating
like RSI, depends on the degree to which we interfere with
ourselves while we do whatever it is we do.
At the core of the technique is the exploration of
the connection between the human body and mind. It is concerned
with the influence a person’s mental conception of an act
influences the manner in which they carry it out. Likewise it is
concerned with how, in performing a given act, it becomes
habitual and thereafter has an ongoing influence on one’s mental
outlook.
The Alexander Technique is a process of educating ourselves
about using less effort and creating less strain on our bodies
as we engage in an activity. This process begins by a teacher
taking time with the pupil to identify where they might be
creating problems for themselves in a simple act such as sitting
in a chair. Once a trouble area is identified then the pupil
is instructed in how to prevent this interference. This prevention
involves changing the pupil’s conception of what is required to
perform the act of sitting. Gradually the pupil will acquire
the tools to explore outside of their lessons the process of
making any activity easier for themselves. The Alexander
Technique is not a treatment that happens once and cures the pupil.
Instead it gives pupils a practical method to have the best possible
influence on their own condition. At some point we must all take
responsibility for our own actions and the pupil’s continuing
commitment to manage themselves is critical for the Alexander
Technique to be successful.
Our ability to get out or our own way when we are engaged in an
activity, whether it is something as mundane as sitting down or
as daunting as speaking to a group of people, is something that
can have a positive general influence on our quality of life. So
come have an Alexander Technique lesson, and start learning! |
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