Alexander Technique
“Mindfulness is the miracle by which we master and restore ourselves.”
- Thich Nhat Hanh
I will be teaching a group class in Alexander Technique and embodiment on Wendesays from 2pm-3:45pm through Movement Research. Register here.
Alexander Technique
The Alexander Technique (AT) is a mindfulness-based practice that provides a process for self-care through building awareness and an understanding of how to move with more balance, clarity, freedom and ease.
Many of us have developed habitual ways of moving and using our bodies that prevent us from realizing our full movement potential and that often lead to chronic pain, tension and injury. These ways of being and moving are commonly happening outside of our direct awareness. By bringing attention to our bodies and how we coordinate to move, we can begin to consciously apply thoughts, intentions and directions to help undo these patterns.
The Alexander Technique does not constitute a series of treatments or exercises, but rather a re-education and re-coordination of the mind and body according to its basic principles. In so being, it is applicable to movement and exercise of all kinds from daily activities such as sitting, standing, walking, typing, lifting and carrying things, to artistic performance, specialized fitness practices, sports and yoga.
Through the Alexander Technique process, you will access an easier, whole-body balance, build self-awareness, improve your coordination, feel more centered and grounded, and understand how much physical effort is necessary for any given task.
AT is suitable for any age, ability or fitness level.
To learn more, watch this video about Alexander Technique by The American Society of the Alexander Technique
People come for support with a wide range of acute and chronic conditions including:
back and neck pain
sciatica
chronic pain
fibromyalgia
headaches and migraines
TMJ syndrome
recent injury
repetitive stress and overuse injuries
whiplash injury
fatigue
post surgery recovery
complementing medical procedures
stress
anxiety
depression
ADHD
trauma & PTSD
meeting life's challenges
enhancing general well-being
Frequently Asked Questions about Lessons
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Alexander Technique lessons provide time and space to consider how you are organizing in your body and coordinating to move.
Lessons typically start by working with everyday movement - your seated balance, transitioning into standing up, and walking. There is also time given to apply what you’re learning to specific areas of interest i.e. singing, speaking, acting, playing an instrument, dancing, sitting at the computer, etc.
Lessons are taught using a combination of light, hands-on instruction, anatomical imagery and verbal guidance. Lessons typically end with a hands-on assisted lie down which is a type of constructive rest lying face up on a massage table. The assisted lie down offers support and a slower pace for your system to integrate the new experiences and new patterning that you’ve learned through activity.
All lessons take place with informed consent and respect for both student and teacher boundaries.
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Lessons are 55 minutes.
How often you should come depends on what your goals are and how readily you are able to integrate what you learn in each lesson.
As a general rule, 3 to 10 sessions will have a significant impact on your sense of balance and ease, and in some cases only one session can make a dramatic difference.
Most clients will need a minimum of 3 consecutive weekly sessions and for long term or acute situations, a series of 6-10 sessions is recommended at regular weekly or biweekly intervals.
Often, clients receive regular sessions for longer periods of time, followed by an occasional tune-up to maintain progress.
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Wear comfortable clothing that you feel at ease in while sitting, moving, and lying down. Wearing a shirt that covers the armpit area and shorts or pants is recommended. Sessions are done fully clothed, you will remove your shoes.
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Single Lesson - $150
3 Lesson Package - $390 - package is good for 60 days
Sliding scale options are available. Please contact me to request sliding scale.
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Sessions are currently offered out of my apartment in the Clinton Hill neighborhood of Brooklyn. Exact location provided upon scheduling.
Elevator access is available.
Nearby subways include: G and C trains