Here are some pointers for what to look for in an Alexander Technique teacher if you want to learn the Alexander Technique.
If you want to learn the Alexander Technique you’re going to need a teacher. But how do you choose?
Here are some pointers to help you find the right teacher for you:
1. Group or one-to-one
First you need to decide whether to learn in a group or one-to-one. There are often group classes at adult education colleges. Many teachers run small group sessions in their local area so you meet other people while you learn.
Group classes generally provide an introduction or an overview. You can often book individual lessons with the teacher at a later date.
One-to-one lessons give you a more personal experience and more direct contact with your teacher. If you have a specific problem you need help with, it’s probably better to have individual lessons.
2. Face-to-face or online
For face-to-face sessions your teacher needs to be local to where you work, live or travel. You’ll probably see them once a week to start with. If they’re easy to get to you’re more likely to be able to find time in your life to make it a regular commitment.
Some teachers went online during the pandemic and continue to teach this way. Others feel that conveying a new sense of how you use your body is more effective in person, especially beyond an introductory level.
3. Professional qualifications
You may want reassurance that a teacher has been well-trained and belongs to a professional body.
In my case I completed a three-year training course and am a teaching member of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique. This provides certification, insurance, a code of conduct and quality assurance.
I also have enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certification for working with children or vulnerable adults.
Some teachers are also on the register of the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council which is an independent regulator for complementary healthcare practitioners.
4. Trust and safety
Your teacher will help you to change deep bodily patterns or ways of reacting that you’ve had for many years. To allow yourself to change requires trust and confidence in the teacher and you need to feel safe enough to let go.
Find a teacher you get on with whose guidance you trust. Most teachers offer introductory sessions or consultations so you can meet them and test the waters.
5. Non-judgmental awareness
Part of the teacher’s role is to make you aware of how you move or react. Being able to observe yourself in a detached way and without being defensive helps you notice and accept what might need to change in you.
As part of your learning you will develop this non-judgmental awareness in yourself. If it’s present in your teacher then you will learn it too.
In summary, these are the key elements I would look for in a teacher - some practical and some more subjective. Good luck.
To help you decide if you’d like to work with me I offer a FREE 30-minute Zoom consultation. You can talk me through your postural or other issues and we can discuss how I can help. There’s no obligation to continue after the consultation.
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