Benefits of the Technique
We often respond to the demands of our life-style and environment by increasing the amount of tension we hold in our bodies. The Alexander Technique is a simple but powerful way of rejuvenating our natural postural spring so that we can let go of these tensions without collapsing, thus maintaining the natural integrity and co-ordination of our structure. In the process we learn to recognise those habits of movement and positioning which sabotage our natural, graceful posture - allowing us to be poised and relaxed in all our activity.F.M. Alexander, born in Tasmania in 1869, discovered a way of restoring and improving the body's natural postural and co-ordinating mechanisms.
This process can be particularly helpful for:
- a variety of medical conditions, and for
alleviating the pain and discomfort caused by
postural, movement or breathing-related difficulties
- situations of undue or extended physical or
emotional stress
- improving skills in any sphere (musical,
artistic, creative, sporting)
- personal growth and development, raising
consciousness
- changing unconscious behaviour and habits of
reactivity to achieve greater spontaneity, clarity
and choice
- improving posture
Lessons
Because our postural habits are so deeply ingrained, individual lessons involving gentle realignment and a re-education of what feels "right" is essential.These practical, hands-on sessions give the actual experience of better movement and co-ordination, and teach its application in activity. Pupils also learn a simple constructive resting procedure for tension release and re-alignment.
Although the benefits of the technique become apparent within a few sessions, up to twenty lessons can be required for the pupil to be able to access these benefits reliably for themselves. Some people may need ongoing lessons to help them manage chronic pain, while others simply enjoy them as part of their own life-skills agenda.
About ATTSNZ
The Alexander Technique Teachers Society NZ (Inc) is the only professional body of Alexander Technique teachers in New Zealand which is a member of the International Affiliated Societies of the Alexander Technique
All members have attended a three-year full-time training programme approved by an Affiliated Society, and are bound by the ATTSNZ Code of Ethics.
ATTSNZ provides a forum for support for Alexander Technique teachers, and a point of contact and referral for those who want to learn from them.