Research into Parkinson’s and the Alexander Technique
Scientific Research Trials into Parkinson’s and the Alexander Technique found that AT lessons are likely to lead to sustained benefit for people with Parkinson’s disease. These findings support the experience reported by my pupil in the article below. Also, the NHS states: ‘lessons in the technique may help you carry out everyday tasks more easily and improve how you feel about your condition’.
Alexander Technique Helps Me Manage Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s Diagnosis
I heard about the Alexander Technique some years ago from my piano teacher who suggested that it could help me to improve my posture and to relax more when playing.
When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 4 years ago, after developing a tremor in my left arm and hand, I decided to follow up on my piano teacher’s recommendation.
Group Lessons Followed by One-to-One Lessons
I began with group lessons led by Hilary which demonstrated the potential of Alexander to help me manage my condition. I moved to having individual Alexander lessons with Hilary in which I have benefited enormously from her sympathetic, practical and clear support. She is always responsive to my particular needs.
Benefits of Having Alexander Lessons
As a result of my lessons with Hilary on the Alexander Technique:
- I have learnt how to relax my mind and body quickly, any time any place – for example standing on the tube; sitting in the theatre; playing the piano.
- This not only helps to reduce my Parkinson’s tremor – it also has a more profound calming effect on my whole nervous system, improving my confidence and general ability to cope.
- My posture in walking, standing and sitting, and my general self-presentation have all improved.
- I am more aware of, and, through the Alexander Technique, have the ability to correct bad habits – such as hunching over the computer and stiffening the neck and shoulders in response to stress.
Alexander Technique is Integrated into Everyday Life
A great advantage of the Alexander Technique is that it does not require any special equipment or time at the gym. It is integrated into everyday life, shaping how we sit, stand, walk and rest.
I have no doubt that the Alexander Technique is playing a significant part in helping me manage my condition successfully. While it was my diagnosis of Parkinson’s that led me to Alexander, my experience suggests that the Technique can contribute to the mental and physical well-being of anyone, of any age with any health issues – or none.
Helen Forrester CB November 2022