FAQ
Do you have any questions about The Alexander Technique?
Email me now joe@searby.net or call 01993 822450
Can I learn The Technique in a group?
The answer to this is another question. Why did Alexander never work with groups? It could have made him a very rich man and he could have passed on his Technique to many thousands of people – if it could be learned in a group. The fact is that the Alexander Technique is about personal growth and change and because everyone is different you need one-to-one work with a teacher. That’s not to say that group workshops can’t serve as a very useful introduction to the principles of the Technique, but there are no shortcuts to really learning it.
Ok, how about if my partner and I want to share a lesson?
This can work very well. I recommend that you share a one-hour time slot between you. You will each get around 30 minutes of hands-on work, but you will also learn though observing the other person and from hearing what is said to your partner as well as to you. Also learning together helps you to encourage each other between lessons and gives you lots to discuss! This system does not tend to work well for friends or parents & children – for these situations you are still better off with private tuition.
Can I learn the Technique from a book or the Internet?
No. Because you are “unlearning” long-held patterns of habitual tension you need one-to-one hands-on contact from a teacher to help you release those tensions. However, the internet and books can be a very useful way of gathering information on The Technique and helping you to make the decision to have lessons.” Take a look at my new book –
What should I look for in a teacher?
Look for MSTAT after their names in the UK (or ask them if they trained at a STAT-approved school). This means they have completed a three-year training with a minimum of 1600 hours contact tuition. There are other trainings for ‘Alexander teachers’, but in my opinion they are inadequate.
How many lessons will I need?
How long does it take to become proficient in any skill? The basics of the Technique can be learned very quickly and you should begin to feel the benefits within a few lessons, but refining those skills takes as long as you want to continue. The best start is to come and have a lesson, find out what its about and make a more informed choice from there.
Is there any point in having one lesson?
Absolutely! How else will you find out if The Alexander Technique is for you? Start with one and go from there…
Is it like yoga or Pilates?
No, The Technique is not an exercise regime. You are not learning exercises or postures or how to hold yourself and you are not strengthening muscles in the traditional sense. You are learning how “not to do” rather than how to do.
Will I be manipulated or massaged?
No. An Alexander Teacher uses their hands very gently and there is no manipulation, just what we call “manual guidance”. A good massage is a wonderful thing, but it is not The Alexander Technique.
Is the Technique recognised by the medical profession?
Yes. I often teach people who have been recommended to learn the Technique by their consultant, physiotherapist, osteopath or doctor.
Are lessons available through private medical insurance?
Under certain circumstances and from certain companies. You should check with your insurers to see if you are eligible and what their criteria are.
What should I wear?