Frederick Mathias Alexander (1869-1955) was born in Tasmania into a large family. At a young age he embarked on a prominent career on the stage. As a result of repeated voice difficulties which specialists were unable to treat, he began to explore the cause of his troubles on his own. Over the course of the next decade, he came to the understanding that it was the way he was using himself that was causing the difficulties. By learning to integrate his head, neck and back relationship through conscious control (thought and direction), Alexander was not only able to rid himself of his voice problems, but developed a method of physical integration renown not only for its benefits to breathing, but to improved health and well being.
What is the Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique is an educational method used worldwide for over 100 years. People study the Technique primarily for three reasons: in order to relieve pain, to enhance performance (for athletes, singers, dancers, and musicians), or to improve posture. In addition, the Technique teaches us to achieve greater conscious control of our reactions, which is a benefit to everyone. Our habits tend to create tension and constrict us not only physically but also mentally and can interfere with our natural coordination. By becoming aware of these habitual patterns we can learn to prevent them and to achieve a more enhanced state of being. Alexander's approach emphasizes the use of freedom to choose in every action. The technique is applied dynamically to everyday movements.
This 20 minute video explains even more.
This 20 minute video explains even more.
Famous People Who Have Used the Alexander Technique
Annette Bening, Juliette Binoche, John Cleese, William Hurt, Kevin Kline, Paul Newman, Lynn Redgrave, Alan Rickman, Joanne Woodward - actors
John Dewey, Educator and Philosopher; Terry Gross, Host of NPR radio program Fresh Air; George Bernard Shaw and Aldous Huxley, writers; Valerie Thompson Williams, Rowing masters gold medalist; Andrew Weil, MD
John Dewey, Educator and Philosopher; Terry Gross, Host of NPR radio program Fresh Air; George Bernard Shaw and Aldous Huxley, writers; Valerie Thompson Williams, Rowing masters gold medalist; Andrew Weil, MD
Jeanne Benioff (650) 364-8119