Why can’t we just learn to sit up straight on our own?

Sometimes our own best efforts to stand and sit upright involve a lot of muscular effort and tension and are too tiring to maintain.  (See position 2 opposite).  As we tire we then commonly fall into a 'slump' - see position 1. 

 

The Alexander Technique promotes ease of sitting as shown in position 3.  This sitting position allows the postural muscles of the back to support us and the breathing mechanisms to work unhindered.

The Alexander Technique teaches us how to minimise our interference to the body’s postural support systems.  The 3 main principles of the technique are as follows:

1. The way in which we use our bodies will affect the functioning of them.  If we perform activities with too much effort or tension, this may lead to damage  and pain - just like driving a car in the wrong gear or with the hand-brake on.

2. The skull and spine form the core support structure of the body.  The Alexander Technique encourages a release of excess tension in the neck and lower back allowing us to lengthen into our full height.  This expansion has a beneficial effect on the entire body including the ribs so that breathing becomes easier and movement more coordinated and enjoyable.

3. Thought patterns can influence the quality of muscle tone involved in any activity.  We rarely pay attention to what we are doing with our bodies.  The technique teaches us how to become more aware of ourselves as we go about all our daily activities.

HOW DOES IT WORK?