Different Theories On How It Works
There are several basic principles underlying the work. Inhibition refers to the process of not responding to stimuli in a habitual way, which allows different, more natural and healthful responses to emerge. In addition when effort, tension and trying are inhibited, the body moves with a new coordination that is light, easy and pleasurable. Change is thus a process of unlearning old and dysfunctional movement patterns by bringing them into conscious awareness and utilizing new verbal suggestions to gain conscious control of how the body is aligned and moves.

This process leads to what Alexander called “good use” of the body:

one that uses the body’s upward, anti-gravity elements to counteract gravity’s downward pull

one that strives to find dynamic balance rather than rigid placement

one that performs activities with ease and flow rather than stress and tension

one that supports the body’s natural structure through lengthening and creating space rather than tightening and holding

one that is always open to creatively adapting to new internal and external stimuli

It is felt that these changes on the physical level also positively affect the mental and emotional aspects of being, including enhanced energy, a more positive self-image, greater awareness and better mental and emotional control.

Conditions It Works Best For
The Alexander Technique is not a treatment for specific health problems. Rather it is a series of lessons during which longstanding movement habits can be changed. Situations where the Alexander Technique has been commonly applied include conditions caused by chronic misalignment, tension, and compression of the body, such as low back and neck pain; repetitive movement injuries including carpal tunnel syndrome; some breathing-related disorders; knee and joint problems; and decreased energy and vitality. It can be used to enhance performance, as in sports, dance, singing, and playing a musical instrument. As a preventive tool, the technique may contribute to more optimal health by teaching students how to move with balance and ease and in correct relationship to gravity in one’s daily life, thus avoiding chronic tension, strain and fatigue.

The Alexander Technique is also increasingly being studied in scientific trials for its benefits for various health conditions such as asthma, stuttering, back pain, the psycho-motor disability in Parkinson’s disease, learning disabilities, anxiety and tension, osteoarthritis, and pain.

Content last modified on Mar 18, 2003