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The Alexander Technique - A Practical Introduction

Today people often accept common ailments such as backache, headaches, arthritis, depression and nervous disorders as being normal. We may readily believe the discomfort we suffer is a natural consequence of 'wear and tear', and not realise that we can do something positive about it. In fact many common ailments stem from stress and a range of muscular tensions caused by poor posture or lack of co-ordination - which can increase as we grow older. Rather than being a natural part of the ageing process, these tensions, if unchecked, can accelerate it and can develop into illness and even deformity. In this step-by-step guide Richard Brennan outlines the Alexander Technique and, by a series of simple awareness exercises and procedures, shows how the Technique can help you to achieve a healthier and more balanced life.

Developed at the turn of the last century by FM Alexander, the Alexander Technique is a simple method of learning to be more aware of how we move as we go about our everyday activities. The aim is to regain the natural grace and balance that we had as a child and to discover easier and more efficient ways of moving, thus reducing the everyday tensions which have built up over the years.

This book was designed for those who have had or are having lessons or for those who live in an area where there is no Alexander teacher. While still very readable it will help you to learn basic Alexander principles, understand the underlying causes of stress, release muscular tension and increase your awareness in a practical way. 136 pages Illustrated with 74 line drawings throughout.

Please note that this book is has been republished as The Alexander Technique Workbook and is very similar in content.

This book will help you to:

  • Increase your awareness
  • Release muscular tension
  • Calm your mind
  • Improve your posture and breathing
  • Understand and get to know yourself better

Chapter titles include:

  • Introduction
  • In the Beginning
  • The Quest Begins
  • Why do we need the Alexander Technique
  • What is the Alexander Technique
  • How Alexander's Discovery is Relevant Today
  • How Can we Begin to Help Ourselves
  • The Mechanics of Movement
  • Faulty Sensory Perception
  • Inhibition
  • Direction
  • Senses, Habits and Choices
  • Muscles and Reflexes
  • Means and Ends
  • Give Your Back a Rest
  • What to Expect From an Alexander Technique Lesson
  • Case Histories
  • Useful Addresses
  • Further Reading

Review

Physiotherapy Magazine

"This book should provide lay people with an overview of the historical background and principles of the Alexander technique and the relevance of his discoveries to modern-day living. It may provide food for thought for physiotherapists interested in postural and balance movement systems. Alexander's findings are all dealt with in progressive chapters, each with one or more accompanying exercises attempting to demonstrate the underlying principle. The book gives a clear and comprehensive presentation of the principles and the material is well organised, being easy to read and follow themes and the points are illustrated with numerous diagrams."

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