The technique invented by F.M. Alexander is a world-renowned re-education system for bringing about ease and co-ordination into movement, posture, breathing and vocal use. F.M. Alexander’s most famous book is The use of the self, which describes his observations in attempting to change his postural habits and the general "use" of himself. Early in his career Alexander worked with voice and breathing problems, later developing hands-on treatment and guided procedures for a wider audience who suffered from a broad range of ailments, including unsightly "posture".
"The most valuable knowledge we can possess is of the use and functioning of the self." (F. M. Alexander)
The Alexander teacher uses words and gentle touch to guide the student through simple everyday movements, such as walking, standing up, sitting down, lunging etc, teaching students to observe their own habits of tension and at the same time promoting new ways of moving with greater ease.
There is also "lying down work", where the teacher adjusts the student’s alignment lying down, focusing on the spine and major joints to promote relaxation and awareness. Lessons are around 40mins in duration. Like learning anything, the Alexander Technique takes time and lessons can vary from a few to many.
Contact an Alexander teacher and discuss your situation to book an initial lesson. You can then gauge if the technique addresses your particular needs and concerns.
All the members of ATTSNZ have attended a three-year full-time training programme approved by an Affiliated Society, and are bound by the ATTSNZ Code of Ethics.
Timothy Gordon provides the Summer Dance Intensive 2010, a week-long intensive dance programme, at Unitec Mt Albert Campus in January and February.
The Alexander Technique class in the course is open to non-dancers and can be taken as a week course (applications for February are now being accepted) or casual class (see information below for the January course).
Alexander Technique 15:45-17:00, Monday 15 to Friday 19 February $25 per class, open to all levels
The technique promotes maintenance, conscious control and ease of performance. The technique seeks to change poor postural reflexes by learning ways of inhibiting and directing oneself toward a better "use". Described as "thinking in action", the class is designed to allow the individual to return to a neutral place of coordinated functioning.
You may need loose clothes, socks, towel, and water bottle. Also,consider bringing mat for lying on floor.
A 75-minute introductory session in the Alexander Technique, its principles and practice.
Learn to change unhelpful tension patterns through guidance and observation, bringing ease into whatever you do in work or play. Simple actions such as sitting, standing, walking, changing weight, breathing, voice and movement can all be improved with the Alexander Technique.
Anyone can join, this workshop is open to the public. However, please book in advance.
Schedule:
11:45 - 13:00, Sunday, 7 March
11:45 - 13:00, Sunday, 4 April
Venue:
14B Westmoreland Street East,
Grey Lynn,
Auckland Google Map
From February, the venue moves from Newton to Grey Lynn
Fees:
$20 (cash only)
Remarks:
You may need loose clothes, socks, towel, and water bottle.
Also, consider bringing mat for lying on wooden floor.
Private and group sessions can be tailored to suit particular requirements. Introductory workshops are available by appointment. Please feel free to make enquiries by Email; alexandertechnique@timothymgordon.com
or phone
021 1603098
YouTube
"The Alexander Technique: First Lesson"
Excerpts from a full DVD introduction to the Alexander Technique with William Hurt and teacher Jane Kosminsky
