FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
On this page, you will find the main questions we receive, which we hope will help to answer your queries. If you need more information or would like to speak with me directly, you can get in touch via the contact form.
About the Alexander Technique
What is the Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique is a simple and practical method that guides us through the experience of living without the muscular tension that causes discomfort and limits our movement. It relieves back and neck pain, releases breathing, and helps us to integrate and regulate our emotions.
Is it a therapy or a treatment?
The Alexander Technique is an educational method and is not a substitute for medical therapy or treatment. If you have an injury, you should consult your doctor first. The Alexander Technique is primarily preventative. It can complement medical care, but above all, it helps to re-educate the patterns of tension that have caused the discomfort.
Is it only for musicians?
No, the Alexander Technique is not only for musicians. Although it is highly valued in the performing arts, it helps anyone in their daily activities, in the workplace, or in any physical or sporting activity. Discovering or improving body perception and how coordination works benefits everyone, both physically and mentally.
Who is it for?
For musicians, actors or dancers, and for anyone who wants to move without pain and with greater ease in their daily life. It helps those who need to maintain certain postures in the workplace, whether they spend many hours sitting or standing.
I am a musician; do I need to bring my instrument?
It is not necessary to work directly with your instrument to benefit from the training. We are going to work with the primary instrument, which is you. However, you are welcome to bring your musical instrument whenever you wish; that is entirely up to you.
What are the lessons like?
Lessons are one-to-one and tailored to each person’s needs. I recommend a weekly one-hour lesson to begin noticing changes. If you wish to enhance the process, you can increase the frequency; the pace is entirely up to you. Each session offers you a practical experience and tools to apply in your daily life.
Do you offer group classes?
Yes. If you would like to introduce the Alexander Technique to your educational centre or company, I can design a bespoke programme tailored to your specific requirements.
Is it similar to yoga, Pilates or Feldenkrais?
It is not similar, but it can complement your favourite practice. The Alexander Technique heightens and refines body perception and breathing, enhancing your regular practice of any form of bodywork.
What benefits can I expect?
The most common benefits include: relief from back and neck discomfort, improved balance and coordination, freer breathing and voice, and a reduction in stress and anxiety.
I have a medical condition; can I learn it?
Please get in touch with me and we will assess your case without obligation. The Alexander Technique is a fundamentally preventative educational method that is tailored to each person’s needs in one-to-one sessions.
Is there a recommended age to start?
I see people of all ages; it is never too late to start. Individual sessions allow me to help everyone from children and teenagers starting to experience postural problems, to people with discomfort associated with older age. Improving balance reduces pressure on the joints and can decrease discomfort.
Does it have any contraindications?
The Alexander Technique is a non-invasive educational method tailored to each person’s needs. Even so, if you are undergoing medical treatment or have an injury, recent surgery, or are pregnant, please consult your specialist and let me know before we begin.
What is the training to become an Alexander Technique teacher like?
Training to become an Alexander Technique teacher lasts for 3 years (1,600 hours). It is private training regulated by the various teachers’ associations in each country. If you wish to train in Spain, please contact the Association of Teachers of the Alexander Technique of Spain (APTAE).
For performing artists
I am a musician: how can it help me?
Less tension while playing, freer breathing, economy of movement, prevention of strain, and a sound that benefits from a more effortless use of yourself.
Does it help if I have nerves or stage fright?
Yes: by improving coordination and breathing, and by training the pause between stimulus and response, reactivity tends to decrease and self-regulation improves.
Do we work with the instrument?
Often, yes. We can integrate your instrument or a practice/study situation to transfer what you have learned to what you actually do.
I am an actor or a dancer: what can I expect?
Greater presence, availability, and expressiveness, with better self-care on stage and during rehearsals.
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