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What is it?


Baby
Natural Poise 		"Alexander recognised that the body is not simply a system of mechanical levers to be adjusted into different positions like a mechanical crane.  It is a subtle organ of expression in which emotional states modify and are modified by muscular tension states...Alexander learned by observation and experiment upon himself, in the strictest scientific method, that the mechanism that determines the character of all reflex action lies in the reflexes governing the relation of the head to the neck, and the neck to the spinal column.  When this 'primary control' or our core structure is functioning as it should, it is sensed as an integrating force that allows freedom throughout the organism." (1)
Professor John Dewey
FM Alexander
Natural Poise


Use Affects Functioning
The discovery made by F. M. Alexander commonly known as the Alexander Technique is not a 'technique' per se, rather it is a unique re-education process that integrates mind and body and makes way for a conscious Use of the Self (2).

Alexander's teaching methodology involves learning how to unlearn harmful habits of use and reaction to allow natural balance and fine co-ordination.  Most importantly, it is about cultivating conscious awareness in order to self-work and bring creative, intelligent choice into how we use ourselves and how we react... in all daily life situations.

Alexander observed that, use affects functioning.  In other words, our general manner of use in all daily activities affects for better or worse the way we function.  In order to function at our optimum physically, mentally and emotionally we need to be free from harmful conditioned habits of use.

Alexander discovered that a certain dynamic balance of the head, neck and back is the main factor in determining the most efficient use and functioning of the whole body/mind complex.  This relationship constitutes our 'core structure' and can be seen working beautifully in most infants and young children.  Their necks are free, the head balances upright on the neck which allows the spine to lengthen and strengthen.  The torso is free of unnecessary tension which allows natural, full-capacity breathing without strain, effort or exercise.

The ability to stop harmful habits of use and direct ourselves is what Alexander called, 'constructive conscious control of the individual',(3) and 'freedom in thought and action.'  This valuable and unique re-education process is available to both young and old.

"I recommend the Alexander Technique as an extremely sophisticated form of re-habilitation...many types of under-performance and even ailments, both mental and physical, can be alleviated, sometimes to a surprising degree, by teaching the body musculature to function differently."
Professor N. Tinbergen
Nobel Prize for Medicine, 1973

(1) John Dewey & F.M. Alexander; www.alexandertechnique.com/articles/dewey first published in 1933. Reissued in 2001 by Orion Publishing House, U.K.
(2) Alexander F.M. Use of the Self
(3) Alexander F.M. Constructive Conscious Control of the Individual first published in 1923 U.K. Reissued by STAT books, U.K. in 1997