Generally, people come to see an Alexander Technique Practitioner for one or more of the following reasons...
- To reduce stress and tension
- To improve posture
- To obtain more energy
- To improve balance
- To get relief from pain
- To improve general awareness
- To improve breathing
- To reduce anxiety
- To improve vocal control
- ... or just to feel better
However, now there are AT Practitioners who can address particular areas for you. I have summarised a few below.
Pain Relief
Pain is a great motivator. The AT is an increasingly popular and well-documented intervention for back pain, and other kinds of rheumatic and arthritic discomfort. The AT is now recognised by the medical establishment, who often refer patients who have tried everything else. Some hospitals and clinics have AT Practitioners working alongside clinicians, although we do not diagnose anything. This multi disciplinary approach is becoming more common. Daryl is currently working in the NHS, helping to reduce days off due to back pain. Slowly (curiously), the NHS and the medical establishment is coming round to the old adage that "Prevention is better than the cure!"
Sports
When taking part in a sport or an active pastime, it is important to use yourself to your full potential, decreasing the risk of injury. The increased stature and expansion that the AT can give you, means that you can find that little bit extra when it counts the most. The AT can really help you get into "The zone". Famous sportspeople who advocate the AT include Daley Thompson, John McEnroe and Matthew Pinsent.
Performance
The AT has been used by performance artists since its inception over 100 years ago. The originator, FM Alexander was an actor who lost his voice. Since then, the Alexander Technique is taught in virtually all performing arts schools in the UK, and many abroad. Actors can learn how to obtain greater stage presence, and how to immerse themselves in to their role. The Alexander Technique is also extremely popular with musicians, who report greater harmony with their instrument, whilst experiencing less discomfort whilst playing. With vocalists, the instrument is the voice which gains greater power, clarity and range. Famous performers who advocate the AT include Yehudi Menuhin, John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis and Sir Paul McCartney.
