The Alexander Technique with John Hunter
What is The Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique is a mind-body discipline developed by the Australian actor Frederick Matthias Alexander at the end of the 19th century. He used it to solve his own and others' respiratory and vocal problems before realising that the effects were much wider than this. Pupils report a feeling of calm, lightness and poise after Alexander lessons. |
The Alexander Technique gave me a glimpse of the possibility of freedom.
Edna O'Brien, Celebrated Irish writer |
How does it work?
Alexander discovered that sensory self-awareness could be used to bring about small changes of muscle-tone in the neck and occiput in order to release pressure on the top of the spine. This facilitates a feeling of lightness and expansion in the whole body, with consequent effects on the respiratory mechanisms. |
I can definitely say without hesitation that I wouldn't have had the rowing success that I have had the luxury of experiencing in my short time on the water, without finding the AT and the great teachers that I have had the privilege to work with.
Valerie Thompson-Williams, rowing masters gold medallist |
How do I learn it?
You learn the Alexander Technique through a series of one-to-one lessons over a period of a few months. During the lessons the teacher will, with verbal instructions and the lightest of hands-on guidance, show you how to carry out day-to-day activities in a light, relaxed way, and teach you some simple, stress-free procedures to practise at home. |
The Alexander Technique has helped me to undo knots, unblock energy and deal with almost paralysing stage fright.
William Hurt, Actor |
Who it it for?
The Alexander Technique is very well-known in the performing arts where it helps performers find poise and presence. It is part of the training for actors and musicians at many drama schools and conservatories, including the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA), the Royal College of Music (RCM) and the Royal Academy of Music (RAM). It is also an effective approach to dealing with various aches and pains. A trial conducted by Southampton and Bristol Universities, published in the British Medical Journal, demonstrated high levels of improvement. |
The Technique's many benefits for actors include minimized tension, centeredness, vocal relaxation, and responsiveness, mind/body connection and about an inch and a half of additional height.
Kevin Kline, Actor |
“...the most effective of all the treatments reviewed.”
Backcare Association
Backcare Association
"Research published...in the British Medical Journal revealed that the Alexander Technique - which works on releasing muscle tension to improve posture, alignment and movement - is significantly more effective at reducing chronic or recurrent back pain than typical GP-prescribed treatment."
Daily Telegraph
Daily Telegraph
About John Hunter
John has over 40 years of experience teaching the Alexander Technique to musicians, actors and the general public. He is a past Chair of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique, an assessor for trainee teachers and current Chair of the Charity for the F Matthias Alexander Technique.
John is a teaching member of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT), has Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurance, and an Enhanced DBS Certificate. He is also a teaching member of Alexander Technique International (ATI).
John has over 40 years of experience teaching the Alexander Technique to musicians, actors and the general public. He is a past Chair of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique, an assessor for trainee teachers and current Chair of the Charity for the F Matthias Alexander Technique.
John is a teaching member of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT), has Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurance, and an Enhanced DBS Certificate. He is also a teaching member of Alexander Technique International (ATI).