Technique gets you into the right frame of mind

This week three pupils of the Alexander Technique describe their experiences and the Alexander Technique teacher at the Helix Centre, Sue Issac, describes what happens in a lesson. These are their own words, but not the pupils' real names.

John is an older man who was feeling "very stressed". He wanted Alexander Technique to allow him to "relax through my body so I could relax my mind". Jo is a woman with a back injury, and Ken came for help with pain in his neck and shoulder.

What happens in an Alexander lesson?
Sue Issac (teacher): Using a combination of hands-on and verbal instruction, I work with pupils on simple activities such as sitting down, walking and standing. Puplils learn how to think about themselves during theses activities, so that they are no longer governed by unconscious patterns of movement and tension. What is learned in the lesson situation can then be put into practice in their daily lives.

John: The teacher uses gentle, smooth handling of my fingers, arms and shoulders, getting them to move easily. We concentrate on the present moment instead of all the thoughts in my head about the past and future.

Jo: It's dicovering ways to get back to the maker's instructions. I was previously unaware of how poorly I was using my joints and muscles. The hands-on is gentle positioning, encouraging you to move or stand in a better way. It's not so much about doing things differently as learning not to do certain things.

Ken: It'sa combination of reminders of and insights into routines that I want to keep closer watch over. After a few placings of the teacher's hands I am reminded.

What's it like having AT lessons?
John: I walked out feeilng a different person. There was a gradula sense of release, and sense of floating. I felt more at ease during the lessons and gradually I was able to get this feeling when practising at home too.

Jo: It's challenging. It affects everything, not just posture. I see it as building a foundation. If the foundation is right then the building is strong and will withstand the weather, whereas if the foundation is shaky it will collapse easily. It encourages you to look instead of glancing. You need to lay aside "knowing it" and be aware that it's an on-going process. I go away feeling release and expansion, more relaxed. It's gentle, you feel in control and can go at your own pace.

Ken: It's my sanctuary. I feel a release of tension.

What do you get from having AT lessons?
John: (15 lessons) I'm more patient. I get less agitated when waiting for a train, for example. I'm less anxious over mislaying things, my sleep is more restful and my emotions less strident. I now see the advantages of slowing down, not rushing. You get there just the same, but in a better frame of mind.

Jo: (7 lessons) I feel lighter and freer. It has opened my eyes to the wonder of the human body, and I've learned that no one part works in isolation. It affects your self-worth - you can't practise it without giving yourself permission - to relax and to invest in yourself.

Ken: (40 lessons) It gives me insight into my self, a sense of calm, and a sense of excitement about applying it to my everyday life.

The Helix Centre privides a wide range of natural healthcare. For a free information pack about all of our services, contact:
The Helix Centre
27 Bridge Street
Loughborough LE11 1NH
Tel: 01509 230200
enquiries@helixcentre.co.uk
www.helixcentre.co.uk