Alexander Technique in London 07985 971 397
Alexander Technique - Catharine Gunningham














The Alexander Technique is a powerful tool for change. Learning the Alexander Technique can help with chronic pain, joint problems, co-ordination, posture, voice issues and breathing, stress and general well-being.

If you are interested in having lessons in Stoke Newington, NE London, or in Islington, or would like to find out more, just email me or call me on 0207 249 9359 or 07985 971397.

For Computer Users
For Back (and other) Pain
For Stress
For Pregnancy
For Performers
For Sport and Exercise
For Self Development



For Computer Users

For many people, sitting at a computer can be synonymous with back ache, aching shoulders and neck, or even the pain of RSI. The Alexander Technique helps us be aware of how we are sitting and of how the tension in our neck and arms is all part of a pattern of tightness in our whole selves. A driven mind leads to driven muscles! Learning to make less effort and to sit in the way we are designed to will ease stress at all levels.

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For Back (and other) Pain

Back pain affects almost half the adult population each year and is responsible for 5 million days off work each year. With the Alexander Technique, you regain your sense of your back as a source of your strength rather than of your pain. Much pain is caused by lack of knowledge of the supporting role of the back and some find that pain is quickly relieved.

With long–term conditions of pain, progress can be slower but the Technique, involving mind and body, is an invaluable tool for managing chronic conditions as it addresses the underlying causes of painful conditions.

Osteoarthritis, painful knees and other joint problems can all improve by learning to release unnecessary tension and to use yourself in a more balanced way.

‘97% of people with back pain could benefit by learning the Alexander Technique – it is only a very small minority that require medical intervention such as surgery.’ Jack Stern, spinal neurosurgeon

‘The Alexander Technique works...I recommend it enthusiastically to anyone who has neck pains or back pain.’ Roald Dahl, writer

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For Stress

Stress is an inevitable part of modern life. We can’t necessarily change the situation but we can learn to recognise our patterns of reacting and thus prevent a downward spiral. With the Alexander Technique, we can learn tools to handle the stress better and find greater calm and perspective so it needn’t lead to physical and emotional problems. After a stressful day, treat yourself to the classic Alexander procedure of constructive rest to prevent stress accumulating.

‘The Alexander Technique makes a real difference to my often tense and busy life. Its thoughtful approach has made me calmer, improved my concentration and given me a clearer sense of my own well being. I am grateful for it.’ Joan Bakewell, TV presenter and journalist

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For Pregnancy

Fundamental changes happen during pregnancy. The Alexander Technique can help you learn to adapt to the extra weight of the growing baby and to avoid back ache and breathlessness. It will also teach you how to cope better after the birth. Pregnancy often brings special challenges – physical, emotional and mental. The Technique can help you deal more calmly and comfortably with what comes your way.

‘The Alexander Technique has helped me adjust to my changing shape and shifting centre of gravity…(In labour)it gave me time to stop the automatic reaction to tense up and have the ability to completely relax in the area where the pain was.’ Mrs B, Alexander Pupil

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For Performers

Actors, musicians, dancers, public speakers, even teachers all use the Alexander Technique to improve their poise and performance as well as to minimise the risks to themselves from the strains of their profession. They also use it to help with performance nerves and voice production in either singing or speaking. The Technique is part of the curriculum in most major drama, music and dance colleges.

"I find the Alexander Technique very helpful in my work. Things happen without you trying. They get to be light and relaxed. You must get an Alexander teacher to show it to you." John Cleese, actor

"I love the Alexander Technique. It has corrected my posture, improved my health and changed my life." Alec McCowen CBE, actor

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For Sport and Exercise

Whether you play for fun or are more serious about sport, the Alexander Technique can help improve your performance. It can also reduce the risk of injury, very common when you are constantly repeating movements which may well be carried out with excess tension. So whether you run, do yoga, swim, play golf, learn Pilates, go hiking or go to the gym, the Technique can be help you get the most from your activity.

‘I can definitely say without hesitation that I wouldn’t have had the rowing success that I have had without finding the Alexander Technique.’ Valerie Thompson-Williams, rowing gold medallist

‘Balance is a vital aspect of good hammer throwing and getting the head, neck, spine and pelvis in the correct relationship enables the balance of the throw to come so much more easily.’ Howard Payne, Commonwealth record hammer thrower

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For Self Development

Do you have a feeling that you aren’t quite reaching your full potential? Or that you aren’t quite on top of things and don’t know why? Many people have found that the Alexander Technique gives them tools to develop their sense of confidence, increase their energy levels and to improve their wellbeing. The Technique can help you understand yourself better so you can enjoy life more and more readily carry out your chosen occupation.

‘From early childhood onward, we make many decisions about how to be and how to live. These decisions shape the habits of our bodies as well as our minds. The Alexander Technique’s in-depth approach helps us move out of unwanted habits and back into choice.’ Mary Cox, psychotherapist

‘It allows me to rest my mind, leaves mental space, and therefore helps with decision making and contemplation, and it improves my energy levels.’ Mr P, Alexander Pupil

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LATEST NEWS

New Back Pain Reseach endorses Alexander Technique

New research published in the British Medical Journal shows that the Alexander Technique has a substantial long-term beneficial effect on chronic back pain. Alexander lessons lowered pain significantly and considerably improved quality of life.

Read the BUPA article
Read the BMJ Report
Read the Guardian article.