The technique was developed by an Australian actor - Frederick Matthias Alexander in the late 19th Century. As a child he was plagued by illness, particularly respiratory problems, in later life this had an impact on his career as an actor and he frequently lost his voice during performances. Various remedies and medications were prescribed without success so he began a period of self discovery spending many years analysing his movements and how these affected his voice. After finding the solution, his method quickly found favour with actors, but over time Alexander realised the technique could help many health conditions.
As children we have perfect posture, but as we age, our way of moving can become inhibited and we develop habits in the way we do things that lead to tension in the body these can contribute to a wide range of health issues including muscle pain, headaches, heart problems and depression. By making simple yet effective changes in posture, movement, co-ordination and by reducing excess tension, the overall level of health can be dramatically improved.
An Alexander Technique practitioner can help you free yourself of poor posture and movement by understanding more about how your body works. Restoring your natural poise can have many health benefits and people of all ages and lifestyles can use this method to improve their quality of life.
Use our online directory to find Alexander Technique Therapists in your town or county by using the search box at the top of the page.
