The Alexander technique is a strategy of mind conditioning that brings relaxation to the body resulting in a more flexible physical movement and proper coordination of the body parts that promotes total well-being. It was discovered sometime in the 1890s when a theater actor and orator by the name of F. Matthias Alexander struggled with the recurring loss of his voice. Repeated medical consultations with various doctors did not detect the cause nor found the cure to his voice ailment.
With no more medical alternative to turn to, Alexander determined to find the cause and cure to his condition by keenly observing his own physical behavior patterns through various means. He even went to the extent of placing mirrors around him which became quite useful in making him discover the root cause of his problem.
He observed that just before he spoke out his oration and lines he would have the tendency to stiffen his body. His fellow actors who had the same horse voice problem like him also did the same in creating undue tension to their necks and torsos.
When Alexander learned how to relax his body and so release the tension, the recurring hoarseness stopped and he began to feel an overall physical wellness and vitality. This was the Alexander technique began which was based on the principle of how the bodily posture and daily physical habits could affect people’s health in general.
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