The Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is a practice that explores ‘the way we react, with our entire being, in every situation of our life’ (Pedro de Alcantara, A Skill of Life).

“Alexander often wrote of the self as something ‘in use’, which ‘functions’ and which ‘reacts’. (Pedro de Alcantara, Indirect Procedures)

For example, the way we speak or the way we walk reflect who we are. In other words, the tone of our voice or our gait represent the uniqueness of each of us. It’s what makes it possible for someone to recognize us with a simple “hello” during a phone call or just our silhouette walking by. The idea of a "Fingerprint’ or ‘password’ can be helpful ideas for representing our unique characteristics. However, there are moments when we may want to change our ‘password’. For example when the way we use our voice provokes hoarseness, or if the way we use our body leads us to pain and discomfort. So, why is it so challenging to change ourselves?
Possibly, because our ‘password’ is related to the way we express ourselves as a unity (how we think, move, feel and act). Change is also a challenge because it is connected with the way we react habitually to everyday stimuli. According to the Cambridge International Dictionary of English: “Habit is something which you do often and regularly, often without knowing that you are doing it.”

The Alexander Technique is a psychophysical re-educational process in which we become more aware of our habitual responses. We learn how to stop some undesirable reactions which interfere with our well-being and we develop the ability to choose consciously what is best for ourselves.

Keep in mind that this is a practical technique which we need to experience to understand.

Imagine trying to describe the color blue to someone who has never seen it?

Links to learn more about the Alexander Technique:
Video: Experience Speaks for the Alexander Technique by Thomas Glen Cook
AT Video
The Complete Guide to the Alexander Technique

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