While some people come to study the Alexander Technique because of a general interest in improving health, functioning and self-awareness, most have a specific need in mind when they begin lessons. The following are some of the most common applications of the Technique:

Muskuloskeletal Pain

Though the cause of this pain can sometimes be a mystery, there are, generally speaking, three reasons for it: disease, injury, or misuse.  The majority of chronic, non-specific musculoskeletal pain can be attributed to misuse or postural maladies.  The Alexander Technique is not a form of therapy or an attempt to cure an illness or heal an injury.  It is, however, a highly practical approach to alleviating general misuse and postural problems.  The Technique provides an index for observing and improving movement and a means to gain proficiency in basic movement skills such as walking, bending, sitting and standing.  In essence, it is a unique form of self-management that helps people to reduce or eliminate misuse of their bodies.  It has been beneficial to people with a wide variety of neurological and musculoskeletal problems such as chronic back pain, TMJ Syndrome, and repetitive strain injuries.

Performing Arts

Singers, instrumentalists, actors and dancers of every sort have benefited from studying the Alexander Technique.  It is taught at some of the most distinguished institutions worldwide such as The Juilliard School and The Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London.  The Technique addresses some of the most fundamental movement issues of the performing artist such as breathing, balance, reducing muscular tension and fatigue, enhancing body awareness, managing stage fright, and avoiding injury.

Athletic Performance

The athlete, much like the performing artist, depends upon the integration of mind and body for a successful outcome.  The Alexander Technique is a highly practical way for the athlete to learn to improve mechanical efficiency, enhance balance, become aware of and decrease unnecessary muscular effort, manage performance anxiety and prevent injury.  The Technique has been successfully applied to athletic activities such as swimming, running, equestrian, cycling, martial arts, tennis, and golf, to name but a few.

Stress Management

Because the Alexander Technique is primarily concerned with how we react to a stimulus, it can be very effective in helping to manage stress.  In applying the Technique we are always brought back to what we are doing with ourselves in the present moment, observing breathing, balance, muscular response, thought and emotion.  Instead of reacting to a situation in a habitually tense manner, we learn instead that we have more choices in how we react, that we can respond with ease, expansion and clarity.  The Alexander Technique also offers practical procedures such as constructive rest and breath work that can be applied regularly to help restore energy and calmness.