Testimonials

Just a few of my many Alexander Technique testimonials.

Roxi came for just one lesson:

“You helped a lot!… i was going to previous teacher for ten years and could not make sense to make much leap of a progress… your lesson was all fine…. made great progress to remove stubborn tension knots… glad i booked appointment and gave it another go”

Syed has been coming for lessons for a year:

Syed Akbar from Fallowfield writes about his experience...

I’ve suffered from what I’d describe as a chronic condition of bad posture virtually all my life. It has made life increasingly intolerable and has become a constant drag affecting and consuming all areas of my everyday life. If got to the point where I became ultimately defined by my condition, physically, emotionally and psychologically. I felt like I was held hostage by my own body with no possibility of ransom. In my predicament I could either succumb to my would be kidnappers (bodysnatchers!) or foolishly in my case try to escape and break out of this physical prison! Now in my early 20s having made it on the outside like a wounded animal in an unfamiliar territory, armed with what little resources I had at my disposal. I decided to emancipate my body by freeing my mind. I researched various solutions to resolve the conundrum in my body. I dabbled with spinal surgery due to what appeared to be a kink in my spine which I thought at the time was the main culprit. However the thought of going under the knife didn’t exactly fill me with delight, Not one of my finest moments, nor an inspired choice. I then stumbled across a clinic in Harley Street where attempts were made rehabilitate my spine by a method known as “manipulation”!, talk about refined! Suffice to say my spine did not bend into conformity. My first attempts to break free feeling thousands of pounds lighter had failed miserably with my back firmly against the wall. I was back to square one. After months of admitting defeat I cut a lonely figure in the wilderness. I decided to put myself though the ringer a second time with a renewed sense of hope more than anything else. I changed my blinkered conventional approach and opted for an alternative solution. This was my first encounter with the world of the Alexander technique. I was introduced to the self proclaimed back magician Philip Pawley. Those associated with this school of thought will remember him with fondness due to his untimely demise almost a year ago. As with anything I was sceptical at first and didn’t know what to expect. The mantra of the technique flies in the face of every convention in society as we know it. The idea of not doing or not trying is squarely at odds juxtaposed against the idea of achieving tangible results. A year worth of lessons later I began to truly appreciate the simplicity and beauty of the paradox known as the Alexander technique. I started to see small changes in my posture from lesson after lesson, which, imperceptible to the naked eye, were huge strides for me and the feeling of optimism started to carry me further down this rabbit hole. After Philips sudden death feelings of ambivalence dominated my minds skyline. Philip was a remarkable individual, extremely intelligent and experienced teacher who gave me the confidence to continue down this unfamiliar winding road. Having got a taste for the technique I finally found what I would describe as the holy grail, the elixir of youth if you will, and I wasn’t going to let it slip through my fingers. I decided to get my body back by getting back on the Alexander saddle. Step in Mr James Crow. Despite the work with Philip I had fundamental issues with my posture, inhabited by many a bad habit. This is where my progress accelerated dramatically and started to really see a marked improvement in my posture and general awareness of myself. There is a perfectly good reason for this as James in my view takes Alexander to new heights for me. James looks at Alexander from a different perspective allowing you to truly let your body detach from the complexity of your mind and therefore letting your body truly be free in its natural state. James uses a no nonsense approach when teaching Alexander, free of any jargon or complex terminology which is easy to digest and apply. He derives this approach from the founding father himself and administers its practical application accordingly. Think of it as old school rules with a 21st century twist! I have been taking lessons from James for almost a year and can safely say the methods he uses to teach Alexander are extremely effective and have an holistic effect on the mind, body and your emotional well-being. I can’t thank him enough for the new plateau he has taken me too on which I stand more confidently, with poise and most of all greater posture. I am in a happier place now than at any stage whilst dealing with this condition and in the position of taking my body back so I can truly define it and not be defined by it. With the greatest of respect to Philip, James has taken me to the nth degree of Alexander. I can now see the light at the end of this long tunnel in my life thanks to James who I believe has given me the final pieces of my posture puzzle. I am still continuing my lessons with James and understand that it is a continual learning curve of progression and I am trending onwards and upwards on that curve exponentially to the point where I will stand on the plateau of the promised land! Not quite salvation but not far from it. Now that for me would be truly a redeeming feature when I have attained the semblance of perfection in its raw form and I become the heir apparent to what is rightfully mine, the temple that is my body. In summary, you probably were thinking when this would ever end and that is still the case for me with James! I would recommend James as an ideal Alexander teacher for anybody dealing with bad posture as he makes the whole experience simple, personal and practical and moreover interesting and fun. When you finish his lessons you [eave with a spring in your step and apply what you have learnt in your everyday life. You then suffer from withdrawal symptoms and want to go back for more! Only kidding! James is down to earth and personable, bursting with positivity with the power to inspire. All in all he is a consummate professional. I don't think I would be where I am now without him and I don't think you will find a teacher like him given the perception of the average Alexander teacher. Oh and by the way he is one of the more affordable teachers not that he is cheap, but moreover cheerful with a wealth of experience to share with you. That said I hope this serves if anything to become acquainted with this technique and with James as a teacher prepare to be truly inspired!

Sabrina Cano Morales took a series of Alexander Technique lessons in Cheshire…

Sabrina came for lessons in Macclesfield...

My back and neck problems could either be a side effect of dancing ballet for more than 20 years, something that has come with the joys of motherhood, or it just might be my “lovely” uptight nature, but the fact is that for the last six years I have been suffering from lower back pain (with two disc prolapses) and during the last four years my neck has been in continuous pain, with the added value of some terrible headaches that could easily transform me from Dr. Jekyll to Mrs. Hyde – no one at home was safe! I have tried many kinds of therapy, but the only thing that has work till now has been a long relaxing holiday… Wondering why? Well, my physiotherapist, a year ago, did. At that point, he had been trying to “repair” me for quite sometime, and after seeing me before and after a long holiday in Spain, he simply (and wisely) said “book an appointment with James!” Do believe me when I tell you how happy I am I listened to him. My journey with James (and F. M. Alexander) hasn’t been as smooth and straightforward as others claim theirs have. But I believe it has been as rewarding. My first lessons were full of confusion, questions, doubts and enquiries. Lucky for me I had the pleasure to work with the very patient James who didn’t (seem to) mind answering time and again all my queries. My main problem was that I built a lot of tension in and around my neck. Every movement (even speaking) made me tense in, out and around my neck. And as I found out during my lessons, it’s not only my neck, but also places I didn’t even knew I tensed – like my eyes or my jaw – plus some bad postural habits like protracting my shoulders. Learning the technique hasn’t been easy for me. I just couldn’t understand how something could possibly be as easy as to do nothing! James made me understand that it’s not my doing, but my letting go which would help my own body learn to inhibit, and eventually be used the way it’s supposed to be used: without tensions. Letting go has an amazing effect. But funny enough, you only learn to do this when you are conscious of it. To achieve this James used to send me some “homework” which I absolutely love: lie down and do nothing for at least 15 minutes each day. Wonderful!! Your day-by-day, your work, your routines, they make you build up tensions and don’t allow you time to sit back and wonder what it is that is not working properly. I have learnt that there is nothing wrong with me, but that I needed to reconciliate with my own body. James, reminding me of this, has been an excellent guide during this journey. It has been with his help and attention that I finally am able to remember to let go, to be my own boss, and go through life in accordance with my own body.

Brian is a semi-retired GP…

I think I am very fortunate to have found James Crow to instruct me in the Alexander Technique. I went for help with my chronic headaches and low back pain, which have improved significantly. However I have also found a great insight into my body and my mind and into the relationship between them. This was very unexpected.
After just a few sessions I have learned how to look after myself better and for this I will always be grateful. Thank you James. Dr Brian Goodall.

Sue is a Director of Healthcare Communications…

Unfortunately the name ‘Alexander Technique’ (AT) doesn’t do it any justice at all. AT is really out on its own when it comes to a positive readjustment of both mind and body to help you lead a more tension-free life. James is an excellent teacher and explains everything in a way you can understand and work with. All you have to do is go with an open mind and commit to trying new ways of approaching familiar situations. I found James after I had been treated by everyone (or it seemed like it) for a frozen shoulder. I knew that I didn’t want to have to go through that experience again and I recognised I needed to pay attention to my body and relieve it of the tension and misuse I had been subjecting it to for years. AT is working for me and therefore, I highly recommend James to you. Once you have learnt the technique and with continuous personal practice you can have a valuable tool for life. Sue Wright.

Shirley is retired and came for Alexander Technique lessons in Stockport…

Alexander to me is pain free without medication, walk tall and be happy. Shirley Frost.

Barbara from Heaton Mersey comes regularly for Alexander Technique lessons…

I first went to see James’ because I had been suffering from painful sciatica. My doctor had prescribed pain killers but although these helped a little with the pain they did nothing to cure the underlying problem. I had heard of the Alexander technique but knew very little about it but it seemed worth giving it a go! James explained the principles and worked on stretching ,relaxing and loosening my tensions, aches and pains. After 2 sessions there was a noticeable difference and after another two the pain had completely gone. In these sessions I also learned to be more aware of my body and my posture improved. Barbara Horne.

Lindsay works for Baby Sensory…

I first went to James Crow in August 2011 because of severe neck and shoulder pain. I felt like I’d seized up! The problem had developed after I had quite a big operation in March 2011 on a major muscle in my back. I’d had physio at the hospital but was left with these problems. Within a few weeks the pain was starting to lessen, and I’m very happy to say it had gone completely within three months. James helped me to understand how important correct posture is. He taught me the correct way to stand, sit, get in and out of chairs and bed, how to lift objects, how to sit at the computer, in the car, even how to hold a book when reading! I think about how I do everything now! I’m pain free and I’m so glad I heard about the Alexander Technique and found an excellent teacher in James. I have to be active in my job and I was very worried about how I could continue with it but now I am fully mobile and energetic. Thanks a million James! The technique has completely changed my life. Lindsay Tipper.

Ryan is an actor…

As an actor, I need to have a clarity of mind & body, whether in an audition, rehearsal or performance, Alexander technique helps me achieve this. Since having Alexander lessons, my work load has increased.

Christine is a secretary and has Alexander Technique at work in Manchester…

Having tried the Alexander Technique, I thoroughly recommend it to anyone who is thinking about trying something different for pain relief. It has helped my neck pain enormously and my headaches have reduced considerably. It is so relaxing and very easy to enjoy doing and practising. James Crow, the Alexander Technique teacher, made it so easy and enjoyable to learn, many thanks James.

Hend is a Phd student who has Alexander Technique lessons in Stockport…

The Alexander lessons with James have been a great experience overall. After I have tried various treatments including expensive massages, acupuncture, and physiotherapy during the past two years I decided to give this a go without high expectations. Since I started the lessons my shoulder and neck pain has become less frequent and as I progressed through the course it gradually started to fade away. James was patient to answer all my questions, and he made sure I go home with lots of practice to do. His wealth of experience and encouragement helped me to gain valuable skills of tension release and body awareness that’s effect last beyond the duration of the lesson. It all worked!

Sharon works as a specialist theatre nurse and comes for Alexander Technique in Stockport…

I feel so much better after my sessions in Alexander Technique, and I can sense that this is a technique that will make my life easier, comfier and dare I say it – painfree – with no nasty uncomfortable or invasive therapies. It’s a liberating discovery, many thanks James.

Aquinas College Workshop…

Fantastic! What a great thing to be offered… This activity was life-changing, if we can manage to put into practice what he taught us over a couple of hours… Enjoyed it so much, I’ve already looked into follow-up classes… Fabulous, very inspiring and extremely useful.

Rachel came for Alexander Technique from Marple and had only 6 sessions…

Had tried physio but I needed to learn how to use my body in a better way. Doing this has helped me enormously. Helped with: improved posture, increased awareness, reduced pain, reduced stress, increased confidence, improved energy.

Pauline has just retired as a teacher and came for Alexander Technique lessons in Stockport…

The Alexander Technique makes so much sense and it’s helped my back pain enormously. I have really enjoyed my sessions with James, he’s great teacher and has the patience of a saint – much appreciated ! Thank you, James.

Rebecca works at the University of Manchester and joined the Alexander Technique group class at the University of Manchester…

I’ve found the classes so helpful and have much more energy and less back and neck pain – I’m so glad I did them!

Lorraine is an Estates Quality Manager who had Alexander Technique lessons in Wilmslow…

What James told taught me was to “own” my body – that AT was all about “inhibition” and “direction”. Certainly for new person trying AT out for the first time I thought it a baffling concept but as each lesson passed I found that James was able to guide and relate the technique to everyday situations like driving in my car, sitting at my desk…dealing with difficult situations etc. James is a great AT teacher- I didn’t realise how good he really was until I was unconsciously lengthening my back and releasing all of my tension in my neck and shoulders and lower back. What this truly meant for me was better sleep, less headaches and ultimately fewer painkillers.
I would certainly recommend James if you were looking for a tutor of AT.

Kathryn from Chetham’s School of Music, where I teach Alexander Technique to musicians at the International Piano School each summer…

Everyone is very positive and grateful for your efforts with them. It is wonderful that you come in, do a great job and cause no problems! I like that.

Joe from the Uni was very grateful for the help…

Hi James, I just wanted to let you know that I thought the course you ran at UoM was really good and I’m grateful for the skills you taught me.

Jane works at Manchester University and was on a group Alexander Technique course…

Thanks for a very enjoyable course, I’m going to miss it, not just because it has helped with a number of aches and pains but because it has also been a little oasis in the middle of the week in which to get away from that monitor!
Your pleasant, easy going manner and charming personality made it a pleasure to attend.

Caron runs the Cheshire and South Manchester Reflexology Group and asked for a group course on Alexander Technique in Manchester…

Your session was very hands-on. We all took away your excellent teachings on how to sit and get up without strain to our bodies. Excellent 2 hours.

Sam from Stockport writes about his Alexander Technique sessions in Stockport…

James has undoubtedly saved my spinal health and that of hundreds like me. During my working day I regularly reflect the time I spent learning from James. I regularly conclude that it was the best financial investment I ever made; I value my spinal and mental health highly! Thanks, James – I look forward to returning for a refresher session soon.

Pam from Cheshire writes…

I saw James at a time when I was suffering severe back pain and he was enormously helpful. His guidance and advice was invaluable in my recovery and I would highly recommend him. Thank you James.

Gail works for the University of Manchester Sports Department. I really, really enjoy giving group courses on the Alexander Technique in Manchester at the University…

Thank you as usual for your wonderful work, we always have good feedback from your classes.

Susan works for the University of Manchester and was on one of my Alexander Technique group courses…

The Alexander Technique course was excellent and the tutor James was first rate.

Alan from Marple comes with his wife for Alexander Technique lessons with me in Offerton….

After six sessions I can fell a positive change and look forward to further sessions. Conditions improved: increased awareness, reduced pain, reduced stress, improved happiness and improved energy.

This testimonial comes from a client in Stockport who had 18 Alexander Technique lessons…

Reason for coming to Alexander Technique: To aid general posture and musclular problems which have caused a variety of problems. Particularly lower back pain and stiff neck.
Result: My stiff neck disappeared after the first lesson and after a couple more I realised that my lower back pain was no more as well. I feel the lessons helped me become more aware of what I am actually doing with my body as well as helping me to relax much much more easily. I feel younger and more supple and most importantly in control of myself. Thanks James! JW, 46, F

Here’s a lovely testimonial from my Macclesfield Alexander Technique clinic…

I was suffering from back pain, particularly whilst cooking, playing the piano or sitting at the computer. There has been a remarkable improvement since going to James. Understanding the basic principles of the Alexander Technique has made it possible for me to stand or sit without the constant nagging pain I had become accustomed to. In addition to the huge benefits received from the lessons, they are relaxed and fun. I’m also sleeping much better again.
Elaine Naylor, Retired musician, 64, F

June Bailey from Cheshire had this to say after her first Alexander Technique lesson with me…

“I am one of your clients from the Wilmslow clinic. I seriously can not believe what I am writing to you here…. from Friday I have had NO PAIN in my hips!!! I have slept through the night with no pain disturbing me, no shooting pains in either hip. How can this be so soon and to be honest I dont know what you did, but it seems to have worked so far. AMAZING…… cant wait for more treatment on the rest of me now.” Weight Watchers leader, Cheshire.

I enjoyed this feedback about his Alexander Technique lessons from teacher Sam who sees me in Stockport. It’s not just posture that Alexander Technique helps. Your quality of life goes up too…

“My lessons with James have enabled me to bridge the surprising reality gap between what I thought my body was doing and what it actually is doing. Studying with James has allowed me to benefit from his knowledge and insight into the Alexander Technique, and has hugely improved my quality of life, physically and psychologically, at home and at work.”

This brief testimonial comes from a client of mine Stockport who came for Alexander Technique sessions in Stockport because of leg and back pain…

After limping most of the time… Leg pains gone. Greatly reduced back pains. Moving a lot more freely.
Sandy, IT worker, 47

This feedback came from sporty local designer Toby who took a 6-lesson Alexander Technique course…

“I took a course of James’ Alexander Technique sessions and was very pleased with the results. He has given me much greater awareness of the way I use my body both in sport and in daily life.”

I often give Alexander Technique workshops, talks and presentations for local societies, charities and associations . Here’s a little feedback from one…

Dear James, thank you so much for an excellent evening. Its rare indeed to find a roomful of teachers laughing and having fun after a long day at work but that was just what did happen tonight. Your approach was interesting and very practical so that we all came away having a good idea of what the Alexander Technique is all about and how valuable it could be to us. I adjusted my car seat before I set off home and I’m quite sure that I wasn’t the only one to have done so! A really great evening and one that we will most definitely repeat.

We asked my clients from the Alexander Technique course at Manchester University “How has the course helped you with any particular heatlh and well-being “. Here are just a few of the replies.

Staff: improved ability to relax and relax tension and pain in shoulders
Student: sitting standing and stop thinking. How to react slowly
Student: My lower back doesn’t hurt any more
Staff: ease of movement, useful tips, can put in practice immediately
Student: Very enthusiastic instructor, good facilities, good sized group
Student: RSI. Gave me more awareness of my posture
Staff: Increased awareness of tension and posture. Really well explained and enthusiastic and confident teacher.
Staff: Better posture
Staff: Posture and back pain. Friendly and relaxing.
Student: My posture is a lot better
Staff: refreshed re: neck/back pain
Student: posture, asthma, anxiety

Feedback from an evening I did for the Red Cross explaining how the Alexander Technique can help back and neck pain…

Thankyou so much for your most interesting and informative talk last evening, I’m sure we shall all benefit from your advice. I’ll call you for more information. However I’m about to try my first active rest session!

Feedback from a talk I gave to the Multiple Sclerosis Society on using the Alexander Technique to help manage Multiple Sclerosis…

Your friendly and laid back approach made everyone feel at ease, and I’m sure you will have some new clients. In particular Vanessa was very impressed as she had had a painful neck for weeks and with your magic touch she found instant relief. Many thanks James for coming to speak and demonstrate to Trafford MS Society, it was a most enjoyable evening.

The following feedback come from the Association of Teachers and Lecturers who had an Alexander Technique workshop on sitting and working without pain…

Thank you so much for an excellent evening. Its rare indeed to find a roomful of teachers laughing and having fun after a long day at work but that was just what did happen tonight. Your approach was interesting and very practical so that we all came away having a good idea of what the Alexander Technique is all about and how valuable it could be to us. I adjusted my car seat before I set off home and I’m quite sure that I wasn’t the only one to have done so!A really great evening and one that we will most definitely repeat.

Here’s some feedback from a workshop I gave to the SRAID department of the University of Manchester…

Thanks so much for the sessions you ran yesterday at our Staff Away Day. Feedback so far is that everyone really enjoyed them, and I can safely say that we will all now be a lot more conscious of what we are doing with our necks!

This feedback came from the Wilmslow Support Group. I gave them a talk to help their massage pro’s end the day with more energy and less back pain…

Thank you James for a brilliant insight into the Alexander Technique. We had a great afternoon – everyone found the presentation useful, interesting and fun. It was great to see everyone laughing and interacting during your talk. Would recommend James to anyone, which I have done. Thanks James.

The following feedback comes from a class I gave at the Paterson Institute, an introduction to Alexander Technique in Withington, Manchester…

I’ve been suffering from computer related RSI for years and I thought I knew everything about how to sit properly at my desk! But I definitely learnt something new. I’m hoping to do the full course in October.
I may be interested in attending further sessions when they start in October. I think James was an excellent trainer, with good knowledge & good communication skills in aiding a large group of participants to grasp the concept of the technique. I would recommend others to attend this course, & would welcome follow up sessions.
I thought the training was fantastic and I am trying to put it to good use. It would be great to have further sessions at the Institute aside from the course he runs at the university as I think it would be of massive benefit.
I think the trainer did very well at engaging everyone in the exercises. he provided good explanation & reasoning behind the Alexander Technique. I feel that the session was just long enough to get all of the information across, so that people could start to make a change, but I feel that follow up sessions would probably be necessary. I cannot think of any comment to make that could aid the trainer in improving or polishing the session.
I would rate the trainer (James Crow): Excellent in knowledge of the subject. Excellent in presentation. Excellent in enthusiasm
I think James was an excellent trainer, with good knowledge & good communication skills in aiding a large group of participants to grasp the concept of the technique. I would recommend others to attend this course, & would welcome follow up sessions.
James seemed a very good instructor. In one session there is not much time to cover everything, but he managed to put across a few ideas and techniques that seem to be helping me. My only problem is remembering to keep doing the exercises.

What would your feedback look like? There’s only one way to find out…

If you’re in pain or want to improve the quality of your life, you have two options: Carry on as you are, or let me help you! Find out more by contacting me now (why delay?) on 0161 4316977