We all learn how to perform. We learn how to hold ourselves together, how to look confident even when we feel uncertain, and how to push through with things we don’t really want to do.
Sometimes, we do this for a long time and at breakneck speed. However, beneath the pretence, the hurry and the holding, there is a quieter, much more natural version of you waiting to be uncovered. The Alexander Technique is a process of returning to that. By shedding layers of unnecessary muscular effort and mental rushing, we can start to subtract the layers of who we think we should be.
Most self-improvement methods ask us to add something new: try harder, sit up straighter, adopt a better mindset, or build a stronger core.
The Alexander Technique, however, works by subtraction. It recognises that our body already possesses an innate intelligence - including knowing how to be upright. Rather than teaching us how to do something right, the Technique helps us to identify and stop doing what’s getting in our way.
Unearthing what’s already there
We can worry that if we stop holding ourselves up and pushing forward, we will simply collapse into lethargy or lose our edge. Yet the exact opposite happens.
In the Alexander Technique, we recognise that mind and body function as an indivisible, fused whole; a concept known as psychophysical unity. When we take away the physical bracing and holding, what’s left isn't collapse or passivity.
Without the interference of chronic tension, our body's natural postural support system can take root, and our mind can settle into quiet alertness.
We can speak from a calmer, more resonant place because we are no longer forcing our voice through a tight throat.
We can begin to experience what it feels like to be naturally upright, as is our birth right, and more comfortable in our skin without apology or effort.
Stopping what gets in the way
There is a real sense of relief in realising we are fine as we are. We don't need to add another layer of effort, or anything else, to be acceptable.
The Alexander Technique gives us so many things including a tangible, practical, learnable way to access and connect to the true Self that has been quietly and patiently waiting there all along.
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