The Alexander Technique, developed by F. M. Alexander in the early 19th century, is a unique approach to learning how to move with ease and lightness as we go through our daily lives.  It is a gentle and intelligent way to release chronic habits, involving excessive tensing and shortening, and learn instead, how to allow natural lengthening, particularly between the head and spine, to continue during the many things we do. It is way to improve posture and maintain good coordination.  Depending on the needs of the student, the lessons can include examining many simple daily actions such as walking, sitting, bending, reaching or lifting as well as complex activities such as swinging a racquet or club, playing a musical instrument, vocalizing, or dancing.

With the help of a teacher’s knowledge and gentle hands–on guidance, it is joy to re-experience moving as we did as children, moving in harmony with our natural design and often feeling lightness and balance replacing heaviness, effort and pain. It is very clear to see, as weekly lessons progress, enhanced performance whether on a stage or working at the computer.  After Alexander lessons our sense of well-being is increased, we are calmer and more relaxed, our posture is open and easeful and we are less prone to pain and injury. These are just a few of the benefits of learning to move well.

Daria T. Okugawa is an AmSAT certified teacher of the Alexander Technique since 1982. She is currently the Director of The Alexander Technique Training Center an AmSAT Teacher Certification Program.