The Alexander Technique is a re-education rather than a therapy. This is because people learn to change what they are doing which causes pain or discomfort or is preventing freedom of movement. This gives people a tool to use at all times to help themselves, providing long-lasting positive benefits. We all hold some tension in our muscles that we may be unaware of – it is habitual and therefore feels right and normal. It could be that this tension is causing a back or shoulder pain when you sit at a computer or have to stand for any length of time.
Postural improvements tend to happen without you even trying. The key is finding out what you are doing to cause pain or restricted movement, and allow yourself not to do it. This works with emotional reactions as well and you learn to notice when you get upset or stressed and learn not to react in your usual way, thereby becoming calmer and more in control of your emotions. In sport and any activity, freedom of movement of the joints allows you to get more efficient use of your muscular fitness, and to enjoy the movement more rather than feeling like you are fighting your body at every step.
Applying the principles of the Alexander Technique to your everyday life can help you reduce your levels of stress. How often do you find yourself rushing to answer the phone as if your life depended on it, or agreeing to do something you didn’t really want to do? The Alexander Technique helps you find a moment to pause and consider your options before reacting.