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In the Alexander Technique, we learn to overcome instinctual responses that tighten the musculature and prepare us for fight or flight.  Becoming aware of tension and releasing it allows us to think more clearly and make sound, conscious choices.

The Poise of Kofi Annan

Recently, Channel 13 presented a program on Kofi Annan, the Secretary General of the United Nations. I was immediately struck by his body usage. With great poise and elegance, Mr. Annan addresses dozens of world conflicts every day.  A filmed conversation of Mr. Annan and Vincente Fox demonstrated the Secretary General's economy of language and centeredness despite the intense pressure of the situation. A friend of Kofi reported that walking into the Secretary General's office was like entering a Zen temple -- ordered and serene.  A few years ago, Kofi received the Nobel Prize for Peace. With grace and mindfulness, Kofi models a higher order of thinking and acting that is key to successful negotiations.

In the Alexander Technique, we learn to overcome instinctual responses that tighten the musculature and prepare us for fight or flight.  Becoming aware of tension and releasing it allows us to think more clearly and make sound, conscious choices. We may decide a given situation warrants aggression (it's OK to get angry) or we may choose to address it with thoughtful conversation.  Awareness of our actions prevents us from repeating ineffective patterns.   Perhaps you remember Einstein's definition of insanity -- doing the same thing again and expecting a different result. 

These are difficult times.  As we all strive for world peace along with Mr. Annan and other leaders, we can also work within ourselves to find inner peace. Releasing holding patterns that keep us bound to habitual ways of being and responding to those around us is a step along that path. 

The Body Mind

What Are Your Thoughts?

Alexander was one of the first people in the Western world to talk about the integration of the body and mind. The topic has been of interest to me since my teenage years.  Perhaps it is no surprise that I studied the Alexander Technique and am now working toward an MSW degree in clinical social work. Some say that the Alexander Technique is like psychotherapy for the body. In their simplest forms, both psychotherapy and Alexander seek to help the client become aware of ineffective patterns (physical or mental) in an effort to prevent them from recurring.  

Over the past 25 years, I have investigated a wide range of methods that simultaneously address the physical and emotional aspects of health. Although all are valuable, I have concluded that to best help the client reach his/her goals, to maintain the integrity of the modality, and to provide safety for both client and practitioner, it is best to separate body work from counseling work.  But "the jury is still out," as they say, and I welcome your thoughts and experiences. Please call or e-mail me and let's get a conversation going. 

A Student Goes on to Train

Having studied with me for 18 months, Don Higdon has begun his training to become an Alexander teacher.  He attends a small, high-quality training program called the Manhattan Center for the Alexander Technique. The Center's director, Caren Bayer, has over 20 years of experience. The training consists of 1600 hours of experiential work.  It can be a fascinating, grueling and stimulating experience. I wish Don the best of luck!  

A Self-Help Guide on Compact Disc

A great way to relax and refresh your Alexander directions, my professionally recorded CD is available for $18 plus $3 shipping. The chair and floor lesson each lasts about 18 minutes.  It's great for beginners too!