Frequently Asked Questions
What is a lesson like?
Dressed in comfortable clothing, the student
explores simple everyday movements such as
sitting, standing, and walking. With verbal
and hands-on guidance from the teacher, the
student learns to observe and change habits
that interfere with optimum functioning.
Becoming aware of and changing these habits
builds a foundation for tackling more specilaized
activities and learning to perform them from
a place of balance and support rather than
from one of tension and effort.
How long does a lesson last?
A lesson is usually approximately 45 minutes
long. The initial visit may last a bit longer,
so that the teacher has time to hear the
student's concerns and to answer any questions.
How many lessons will I need?
How many lessons does it take to play a musical
instrument, to learn to sing or dance, or
to learn a martial art? Would you like to
learn to play a simple tune, learn a few
basic ballet steps, or are you looking for
a new ongoing experience that will add a
dimension to your entire life in ways that
you cannot predict? Both options and everything
in between are possible in studying the Alexander
Technique.
As with learning most arts, the Alexander
Technique is an ongoing investigation into
becoming self-aware, and offers the knowledge
to enjoy subtle improvements in the way in
which one goes about doing all that he or
she does. The number of lessons is something
that each student should discuss with the
teacher, and will depend on the student's
long or short term goals.
Are lessons taught privately or in groups?
The Alexander Technique is primarily taught
in weekly private lessons. This is because
each person presents their own unique set
of physical patterns and thought processes.
On the other hand, group classes, while not
always conducive to addressing an individual's
particular needs, provide a larger forum
for shared experience, discussion, and reflection.
How is the Alexander Technique different
from other approaches?
The Alexander Technique is not a treatment
such as massage or chiropractic. It promotes
self-care, the ability to balance your own
structure, soothe your own nervous system,
and release your own muscles.
The Alexander Technique is not a set of exercises,
like yoga, t'ai chi, or Pilates. It teaches
you to be more aware of how you move and
to better coordinate your body in activity,
thereby helping you to do specific exercises
with less strain and more comfort.