All about the Alexander technique

Now sit back down and try it this way. Sit upright in the chair and relax your head upwards. Concentrate on relaxing your neck and thinking about a line travelling through the top of your head. To stand up without pushing off from your thighs or knees, relax upwards and forwards. Simply lean forwards, tilting that imaginary line so that it continues to direct your body up and forwards.

How did that feel? Was it easier than hoisting yourself off the chair with your hands? Did you feel less tension in your neck and back when doing it the second way?

Alexander found that the most useful change he could make was relaxing his neck muscles so that his head, followed by his body, could release in an upwards direction - delicately, without any stiffening or undue effort. This is the guiding principle of all movements in Alexander technique, and it can even be applied to sports like walking and running. Next time you go for a walk or jog, try concentrating on letting that line from the top of your head direct you. Relax upwards and tilt slightly forwards. Let your body follow and see if you feel more comfortable.

Practitioners of Alexander also focus on conserving energy in other ways. How hard do you really need to grasp a doorknob to open a door? Do you really need to bend so far over while brushing your teeth?

If you're interested in learning about the Alexander technique, look for a teacher who has gone through the complete three-year training course and apprenticeship.

For more information on the Alexander technique and other resources, check out: the Society of Teachers of the Alexander technique website or look up the following books, available on amazon.co.uk:

• The Complete Illustrated Guide to the Alexander technique : A Practical Program for Health, Poise, and Fitness by Glynn MacDonald, Glenn MacDonald
• Teach Yourself the Alexander techniqueby Richard Craze
• In a Nutshell: Alexander technique by Aisla Masterson