Conclusions:
Strong evidence exists
for the effectiveness of Alexander Technique lessons for chronic back pain and moderate evidence in Parkinson’s-associated disability.
Who benefits from Alexander Technique?
A common reason people take lessons in the Alexander Technique is to improve posture. By teaching how to recognize and unlearn habits of tension that interfere with posture, the Alexander Technique can enable
individuals of all ages
to regain good posture for the long-term – free of stiffness and tension.
Do studies give evidence that the Alexander Technique is effective?
A recent randomized controlled study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that Alexander Technique lessons led
to significant reductions in neck pain over 12 months
, compared with usual care. (Interestingly, the study also found that acupuncture reduced pain as well, compared with usual care.)
Can you teach yourself the Alexander Technique?
Through a series of easy and gentle exercises included in Teach Yourself Alexander Technique, you will relearn how to sit, stand, and move to reduce pressure on the spine. New features of this edition include expanded advice and exercise sections, chapter summaries, and updated references.
Does Alexander Technique really work?
There’s currently
little evidence to
suggest the Alexander technique can help improve other health conditions, including asthma, headaches, osteoarthritis, difficulty sleeping (insomnia) and stress.
How much does Alexander Technique cost?
Costs of Alexander Technique lessons in London typically vary between
about £50 to £120 per session
. This is usually based on the location and level of experience of the practitioner. At the Studio, the usual fee is £100.
What is the FM Alexander Technique?
The Alexander technique is a
gentle approach that aims to re-educate the mind and the body through a series of movements
so the body uses muscles more efficiently. The relationship between head and spine is key. When the neck muscles work well, the head should balance lightly at the top of the spine.
How is the Alexander Technique used today?
The Alexander Technique is an educational method used worldwide for well over 100 years. By
teaching how to change faulty postural habits
, it enables improved mobility, posture, performance and alertness along with relief of chronic stiffness, tension and stress.
What is the difference between Feldenkrais and Alexander Technique?
The
Feldenkrais method typically does not address posture directly
, whereas the Alexander technique focuses on dynamic posture. In the Alexander technique, the teacher provides more clear direction to the student, whereas in the Feldenkrais method, the teacher makes a point of not directing toward a specific outcome.
How do you sit Alexander Technique?
Sense your sit bones on the chair and your feet flat on the floor
. Let your sit bones rest on the chair as you think of letting your skull go in the opposite direction, up to the ceiling. Allow your neck muscles to release into length, so that your head floats up and you allow your spine to follow.
How long does it take to learn Alexander Technique?
Some students study for
3-5 months
, others continue taking lessons after reaching their initial goals and study for years, learning more. Duration of study is up to you.
Can the Alexander Technique help scoliosis?
The Alexander Technique helps adults and children with scoliosis to
improve their posture and relieve pain, discomfort
, and imbalances in the shoulders, hips, legs and gait that tend to result from it.
Is Alexander Technique scientific?
The Cochrane group, however, found no studies of sufficient strength evaluating the Alexander Technique and asthma management. Although there are theoretical benefits of this type of technique to athletes,
there are no scientific studies on the effect of the Alexander Technique
on athletic performance.
How many lessons does Alexander Technique have?
The Alexander Technique is most commonly taught privately in a series of
10 to 40 private lessons
which may last from 30 minutes to an hour. Students are often performers, such as actors, dancers, musicians, athletes and public speakers, people who work on computers, or those who are in frequent pain for other reasons.
Where did the Alexander technique originated?
The Alexander Technique was developed in the 1890s by Frederick Matthias Alexander, born in
Tasmania
in 1869. Alexander’s promising career as a young actor was threatened by recurring vocal problems.
How do you become a Alexander Technique teacher?
The training requirements for AmSAT teacher certification are specified in the AmSAT Bylaws and include the completion of 1,600 hours of training over
a minimum of three years
at an AmSAT-approved Teacher Training Course or an equivalent Bylaw-compliant training.
