alexander technique

   
 

 
 
 

The Alexander Technique

Osteoporosis
Many people with osteoporosis suffer from back, neck or shoulder pain. This relentless pain can leave them feeling tired, tense and concerned about bad posture, which also contributes to pain. The Alexander Technique can sometimes help all these problems. Described as "an education not a therapy", it aims to help people understand and sense how they carry their body and practise ways to break the bad habits that cause pain and tension. London teacher Tamar Dhiri explains what it's all about.

What is the Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique was developed in the 19th century and is based on the principle that by learning how to consciously prevent unwanted, unnecessary and harmful habits we can prevent strain and injury and promote ease of movement. Today's lifestyle often puts an unnatural strain on our bodies as we spend more time sitting at our desks or slumped in front of the TV. Over time this hunching and slouching can distort the way our muscles and joints work. Poor postural habits then become locked in the body, interfering with our natural poise and freedom of movement, and compressing the spine. This can lead to stress, exhaustion and pain. The Alexander Technique teaches you how to transform the way you use yourself in everyday activities. It doesn't seek to "treat" specific ailments, but the therapeutic effects of applying it can be considerable if we learn how to change habits that do us harm.

How can it help people with osteoporosis?
Many people with osteoporosis suffer from pain, tension and altered posture because of spinal fractures. When the bones of the spine collapse, this can trap or irritate nerves which radiate from the spinal cord. Pain can come from a trapped nerve or a muscle going into spasm to protect the area because the body's natural reaction to pain is to contract muscles in the surrounding area and to stop moving or using a painful part of the body. This allows us to guard a weak area from further damage. However, it comes at a price - restricted movement and circulation. Over the long term this can lead to more pain. As one part of your body becomes less used, more and more movements become stiff and painful, leading to more muscles being affected, and the pain can then seem to spread. Finally you can end up with chronic pain and tension, an overall reduction of fitness and postural problems. AT can teach you to gently release this excess tension and regain confidence in you body.

What happens in a lesson?
One-to-one lessons from an AT teacher will enable you to develop a greater understanding of your own body. Through learning how to sit, stand and move effectively, you will be taught how to recognise and change the patterns and stresses caused by harmful habits that can lead to pain and tension. Often, part of the lesson takes place lying down on a treatment couch, where you will learn how to release tension. This is both relaxing and rejuvenating. An initial consultation can last up to an hour and will allow your teacher to assess your specific needs. It is important to inform them that you have osteoporosis so that they are aware of any problems you may have. You can generally see some changes in just a few sessions, although it will take longer in order to see lasting improvements.

But does it work?
AT can be a powerful tool for change and it has been the subject of several scientific studies (for more on these visit www.stat.org.uk). The Technique can be learnt by anyone from nine to 90 and can lead to increased enerjy levels and an enhanced sense of wellbeing.
Where can I find out about teachers in my area, and how much will it cost?

STAT, which stands for the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique, holds a directory of qualified teachers across the UK (contact details at the end of this article). The cost of a lesson will depend on the teacher's level of experience and where they are in the country. You should expect to pay a similar price as you might pay, for example, an acupunturist or a homeopath. Doctors may also recommend that patients learn AT and some medical insurance companies pay for lessons if a consultant prescribes these. Back to top of page

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