About the Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is a practical method for improving how you move, think, and respond in daily life. It helps you become more aware of unhelpful habits—like tension, slumping, or holding your breath—that can affect everything from how you sit and walk to how you feel and perform.

Many of us are so used to pushing through our days on autopilot that we don’t realise how much unnecessary effort we’re using. The Alexander Technique gives you the tools to pause, notice, and choose a more easeful and balanced way of being.

A Bit of Background

The Technique was developed in the 1890s by actor Frederick Matthias Alexander, who had recurring voice problems that no one could solve. By closely observing himself in mirrors, he noticed that the way he used his body—his posture, breathing, and reactions—was actually causing the issue.

Through trial and discovery, he learned to change those unconscious habits. His voice recovered, and he went on to teach his method to others, realising it could help with far more than voice problems.

So, what does this mean for you?

Let me ask:
What are you doing right now—not just with your mind, but with your whole self?

Are you slumping in your seat? Holding your breath? Frowning or tensing your jaw?
Most of us do these things without even noticing.

The Alexander Technique helps you gently become aware of these patterns so you can let go of the ones that don’t serve you. It’s not about trying harder or “sitting up straight”—it’s about doing less and rediscovering the natural ease and poise we had as children.

What happens in a lesson?

With the help of a trained teacher, you explore simple everyday movements—like sitting, standing, or walking—with greater awareness. Through gentle hands-on guidance and verbal cues, your teacher helps you experience how balance, freedom, and coordination can feel.

Over time, this work can help with:

• Back, neck, or joint pain
• Tension and stress
• Breathing, voice, or performance issues
• Confidence, clarity, and presence

Want to go deeper?

If you’re curious about the research, this study on back pain from the British Medical Journal was the one that convinced me to try lessons.

You can also visit the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique for more information.

But really—the best way to understand the Technique is to experience it for yourself. You might be surprised at how much lighter and more spacious life can feel.