Alexander Technique Q&A

What is the Alexander Technique?

It’s a technique for everyone from daylong computer users to professional athletes, the Alexander Technique helps you become more aware of your posture, takes stress off your body and mind, and helps you move more freely.
It helps if you have backache, or a stiff neck and shoulders, if you want to improve your posture, if you suffer from RSI, or if you just get uncomfortable sitting at your computer. An NHS study proved it can reduce days with back pain by 86%.
It’s also great to learn if you’re a singer, musician, actor, dancer or athlete and feel you’re not performing to your full potential.
And if you get headaches, problems sleeping, or stress and anxiety, use the Alexander Technique to help you feel more relaxed and comfortable in your body.

What should I wear?

There’s no need to wear anything special, just come as you are. Loose fitting trousers are best, and it’s best to come in trousers rather than a skirt. You may well take your shoes off, so socks are handy. You might even win my prestigious “Socks of The Week” award.

Can I bring a friend or relative?

Yes, you can always bring someone along with you. Usually if you do, you won’t for the next session, as the one-to-one attention you need can get taken away by the other person. You can also choose to come as a couple, or even as a group, and I’ll tailor the session to suit you.

Does it hurt?

No. Never. Even for the 2400 sessions that were held for the big study in the British Medical Journal, not one contra-indication was reported. In my sessions, we don’t ‘do pain’ and we certainly don’t go for the ‘no pain no gain’ attitude that you’ll find with some other, less effective, methods!

Do I need to see my doctor first?

It’s important to note that I’m not a GP or medically trained professional. Whilst there’s absolutely no need to see a doctor if you’re coming for self-improvement, for those who come for help with back pain I would recommend you speak to a GP first, in case there’s a more serious cause of your pain.

How many sessions will I need?

That’s a good question! Some of my clients find they have no back pain after just two or three sessions. One client’s sciatica stopped after one session, and another who still has sciatica has been coming for months. It all depends on your current state, and your commitment to learn – for some a few weeks, for others it can take a lot, lot longer. And for people who come for self-improvement, the sky’s the limit. This is why I offer introductory sessions, and sets of 6, 12 and 24 sessions. Most people take a set of 12, one a week, and then come less frequently after that. Think of this as learning a new skill, like learning a new instrument, and once you’ve learnt it you have it for life!

Are you qualified?

I’m CRB checked every year, insured, and approved to teach by the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique. GP’s are recommended to refer to me because I’m a member of the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council, and Alexander Technique is recommended by the Government watchdog the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (N.I.C.E.). I’m also used to working with children at Chetham’s School. Only choose an Alexander Technique teacher who is approved by the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique, which means they’ll have three years full-time training, like me!

We’re used to the idea of physicians who can’t heal themselves, child psychologists with unruly kids, singing teachers who can’t sing and football coaches who can’t make it from one end of the pitch to the other. Teaching the Alexander Technique is different. Before an Alexander teacher can help you, they have to know it inside out. For themselves. No excuses. I’m happy to say I use the Alexander Technique all day, every day, and my results prove it, as my testimonials show!

Who do you work with most?

I work with everyone from kids to people in their late 80′s. I’d imagine you fit in there somewhere! In particular…

  • Actors
  • Musicians
  • Teachers
  • Nurses
  • Secretaries
  • Sportspeople
  • Office workers
  • Drivers
  • Baby Boomers
  • People with back, neck or joint pain
  • People recovering from injuries or operations
  • People who want to improve their posture
  • People who want to look and feel younger
  • Meditators, yoga, tai-chi and pilates fans
  • You!

What next?

Call me on 0161 4316977 with any questions I can help you with, email me or use the contact form to get in touch and book your session now!