Alexander Tip # 4 The Alexander "Process"

Alexander Technique is about restoring fluidity to the way we move.

FM Alexander developed a process by observing something happens between our head and spine in everything we do. He realised this had great significance..as it can either support or interfere with our coordination. He discovered that a fluid dynamic relationship of the head and the whole self enabled optimal coordination and He realised that we can take charge of the head spine relationship and Consciously cooperate with it.

How can we apply this process ?

It involves some detective work as we are usually unaware of the dynamic relationship between the head and spine and that often there is interference.

Body mapping is a good starting point. Just knowing where the joint is - right up between the ears and behind the nose - and that it is place of dynamic movement is enough to start making change.

And the process?

Simple ask..

Your brain is good at getting what you ask for.

Good to be clear.

First Remember your head and whole body and support coming up..

Ask for ease at the head spine joint so your head can move and

your whole body can respond so that you can do what you want to do.

That in a nutshell is pretty well the Alexander process !

Of course applying it and changing deeply entrenched movement patterns requires patience.

The process is like an enabling tool - an organising technique that undergirds all activity. It enables you to do whatever you want to do more effectively - play sport or a musical instrument, carry bags, climb stairs vacuum, put on make up - anything and everything.

Lets Experiment

Tighten a little between head and spine then start to hum

( beware any neck issues )

observe

then ask for your head to move freely on top of spine so that all of you can respond

Hum observe the difference

Then do the experiment with 'looking down'

Some ' hands on ' work is a good way to experience the Alexander process and speed the learning but it can be learned by yourself. It really is brain work. And you are in charge of that....

A 'typical' picture of coordination - head pulled back and down creating compression through the body - compare with the alive forward and up 'ness ' of FM himself