Alexander technique
Learning the Alexander technique
The Alexander technique is taught by a qualified teacher (see Finding a teacher below for information about training)in one-to-one lessons.
Lessons often take place in a studio, clinic or the teacher's house and usually last 30-45 minutes. You'll be asked to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing so you're able to move easily.
The teacher will observe your movements and show you how to move, sit, lie down and stand with better balance and less strain. They'll use their hands to gently guide you in your movements, help you maintain a better relationship between your head, neck and spine, and to release muscle tension.
You'll need to attend a number of lessons to learn the basic concepts of the Alexander technique. Often, around 20 or more weekly lessons are recommended.
Teachers of the technique say you may see an improvement in aches and pains fairly soon after starting the lessons, but that you need to be committed to putting what you learn into practice and it may take a considerable amount of time to see the full benefits.
The overall aim is to help you gain an understanding of the main principles involved so you can apply them to everyday life, allowing you to benefit from the technique without the need for frequent ongoing lessons.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
The Alexander technique teaches improved posture and movement, which is believed to help reduce and prevent problems caused by unhelpful habits.
Risks and limitations
For most people, Alexander technique lessons are safe and pose no health risks. No manipulation of your body is involved, just gentle touch. However, the technique may not be suitable for certain peo
Key principles
The main principles of the Alexander technique are: "how you move, sit and stand affects how well you function" "the relationship of the head, neck and spine is fundamental to your ability to funct
Learning the Alexander technique
The Alexander technique is taught by a qualified teacher (see Finding a teacher below for information about training)in one-to-one lessons. Lessons often take place in a studio, clinic or the teache
Does it work?
Proponents of the Alexander technique often claim it can help people with a wide range of health conditions. Some of these claims are supported by scientific evidence, but some have not yet been prope
Availability and regulation
Alexander technique lessons aremostly available privately.Each lesson usually costs around 35-50. However, in recent years some NHS trusts have started to offer Alexander technique lessons as part of
Risks and limitations
For most people, Alexander technique lessons are safe and pose no health risks. No manipulation of your body is involved, just gentle touch. However, the technique may not be suitable for certain peo
Key principles
The main principles of the Alexander technique are: "how you move, sit and stand affects how well you function" "the relationship of the head, neck and spine is fundamental to your ability to funct
Learning the Alexander technique
The Alexander technique is taught by a qualified teacher (see Finding a teacher below for information about training)in one-to-one lessons. Lessons often take place in a studio, clinic or the teache
Does it work?
Proponents of the Alexander technique often claim it can help people with a wide range of health conditions. Some of these claims are supported by scientific evidence, but some have not yet been prope
Availability and regulation
Alexander technique lessons aremostly available privately.Each lesson usually costs around 35-50. However, in recent years some NHS trusts have started to offer Alexander technique lessons as part of
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