Research Corner - Q&A Alexander Technique by Rodney Corn | Date Released : 01 Dec 2001 0 comments Print Close Question: Can you please define the Alexander Technique? Answer: The Alexander Technique is a very practical method of education that uses observation and attention to the performance of simple activities to explore the relationship between mind and body. Alexander discovered that the functioning of our system is strongly affected by how we coordinate our head, neck and back relationship in activity. When we interfere with this subtle dynamic balance, we can create distortion and strain. The result of this may be experienced as specific symptoms like backache, stiff neck and shoulders, postural problems or more generally as a lack of poise, feeling "off balance" or "out of touch" with the body. In children, we can see a freedom in movement that allows them to move gracefully and without strain. We rarely see that same freedom continuing into adult life. Most of us have developed habits that interfere with our natural coordination and functioning. We become disconnected and find ourselves reacting automatically in ways that interfere with our physical, emotional and mental well being. The Alexander Technique involves exploring "how" we do things rather than "what" we do. It is best learned in one-to-one sessions, which involve the use of verbal instruction and guided movement. Lasting approximately 30 minutes, these lessons or "explorations" help to uncover and eliminate tension and stress and encourage the return to a more natural coordination and poise with the accompanying benefits to health and well being. Although a few sessions can make an difference, it is recommended to have between 20 to 30 sessions to ensure that the skill can be learned and changes can be maintained. Since our physical well being affects our mental and emotional well being, those learning the technique often find themselves feeling more confidant and positive in life. Back to top About the author: Rodney Corn Rodney Corn is a co-founder of PTA Global with over 20 years in the fitness industry. As a collegiate athlete, bodybuilder, published author and contributor to numerous industry publications, Rodney has traveled the globe sharing his extensive scientific and practical experience in wellness, sports performance and corrective exercise. He is an adjunct faculty member at the University of San Francisco and California University of Pennsylvania. Rodney holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and masters degree in biomechanics. He is also a Fellow of Applied Functional Science with the Gray Institute. Full Author Details Related content Content from Rodney Corn There is no related content. Please click here to see more... | Mastering the Prospecting Mindset on the Fitness Floor Rodney Corn | Articles Bracing vs Drawing In Rodney Corn | Articles Olympic Weightlifting - Part 3 Rodney Corn | Articles Olympic Weightlifting - Part 1: Movement, Alternatives and Application Rodney Corn | Articles Shoulder Popping During Exercise Rodney Corn | Articles Baseball Bat Swing Pain Rodney Corn | Articles Muscles: It is Important to Give the Muscles a Day Break Rodney Corn | Articles Coxa Valgum and Exercises Rodney Corn | Articles Hyperextension Bench Rodney Corn | Articles Hip Flexor Pain Rodney Corn | Articles Pronation - Distortion Syndrome and Exercise Rodney Corn | Articles Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Rodney Corn | Articles Neck Pain Exercises Rodney Corn | Articles Aerobic Training and RMR Rodney Corn | Articles Alexander Technique Rodney Corn | Articles Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Rodney Corn | Articles Balance Problems Rodney Corn | Articles Putting the Maximus Back Into Gluteus Part 3: Correction through Proper Program Design Rodney Corn | Articles Muscle Classification System Rodney Corn | Articles "Cottage Cheese Legs" Rodney Corn | Articles Putting the Maximus Back Into Gluteus Part 2: Common Causes of Disruption Rodney Corn | Articles Putting the Maximus Back Into Gluteus Rodney Corn | Articles Age, Function and Integrated Training Rodney Corn | Articles Neurological Rationale for Integrated Training Rodney Corn | Articles Please login to leave a comment Comments (0) Back to top