The Alexander Technique For Dummies is a slight put-down. 'Calculus For Dummies', 'Biology For Dummies', 'Basket Weaving For Dummies' , ''The Alexander Technique For Dummies' are all slight put-downs. I realize these titles actually mean for beginners, but 'For Dummies' is a derogatory term. The only 'For Dummies' book I can think of that would not a put down and would, in fact, be uplifting and inspirational would be 'Ventriloquism For Dummies'...
Many Alexander Technique teachers are slumpers, or former slumpers. My name is Mark and I'm a slumper. Slumping was my habit before I became an Alexander Technique teacher, and it will be my habit forever. Although slumping is my habit, I don't have to 'do' my habit; I don't have to inhabit my habit. I could observe it. Through awareness...
What if F.M. Alexander, the originator of the Alexander Technique, was born in 1969 in New York City, instead of 1869 in Tazmania? What would the Alexander Technique look like today? How would it differ? What can we learn about our habits and beliefs as Alexander Technique teachers and students?
I was happy to be asked by New York Magazine to write a few sentences about the Alexander Technique. The Alexander Technique was to be included as one of the steps in an article entitled: '50 Steps To Simple Happiness.' New York Magazine wanted me to give a few instructions about the Alexander Technique, and when to 'do' the Alexander Technique. Yikes... When to do the Alexander Technique? When not to do the Alexander Technique would save space! The Alexander Technique isn't something you do at certain times, say from 7 to 8 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Alexander Technique is more like...
