Conditions associated with undue tension or bad posture, poor coordination and movement, joint and muscle problems, voice and throat disorders, stress, R.S.I. high blood pressure, asthma, anxiety states, osteo-arthritis, scoliosis of the neck, spondylosis, migraine, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, rehabilitation after stroke, injury or operation, etc., breathing disorders, and stress-related conditions (e.g. performance nerves).

The Alexander Technique is suitable for everyone as it helps you to use yourself (your body and your mind) in a more appropriate and beneficial way. However, the teacher-pupil relationship is very important, so you need to find a teacher who is suitable for your needs. Consequently the Introductory lesson is very important.

I take your case history and do some very gentle, non invasive hands-on work. I generally ask people to become aware of what they do during every day movements, like sitting, standing and walking. I endeavour to give people an overall experience of how I work as an Alexander Technique teacher and answer any questions that may arise. I explain how individual lessons and courses are priced and if a person wishes to continue, we work out a personalised schedule for them. This lesson lasts one hour.

Generally between 35-40 minutes. Lessons for children are sometimes less as they have a shorter attention span.

The Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT) suggests that most people need between 20-30 lessons.

My experience of 30 years teaching is that most people need approximately 25 lessons to be able to use the AT in their daily activities. A course of 25 lessons can take place over 6 months, with frequency of lessons reducing as people become more familiar with the new ideas and can practise on their own. Many people do a course then come back for an occasional “top up” lesson. I offer courses of 25 lessons at a discounted rate

Although we are all born with a mind and body, we are not issued with an instruction book! During lessons people sit, stand, walk and carry out other daily activities (such as singing, writing, lifting, sitting at a computer etc). With gentle hands on guidance from the teacher they gradually see that the way they carry out their activities could well be the source of their problems. I also do very gentle hands-on work when people are lying on the teaching table. It is very gentle and non intrusive and is neither massage nor manipulation. As lessons continue, pupils learn to change the way they perform their habitual activities, update themselves and start to bring about changes for themselves.

As with learning any new skill, generally the more you practise the better it becomes (i.e. if you practise properly!) I ask my pupils to practise for 10 minutes per day – which they generally find very enjoyable.

Anything comfortable which allows freedom of movement. I generally ask people to remove their shoes

People with specific difficulties need the amount of hands-on work available in one-to-one lessons. The groups I run are limited to 12 people and are intended for those who have already had some lessons or who want to have a "taster" of the Alexander Technique.