Do you make time to lie down in semi-supine between lessons? The bottom line is that those that do, get more from their investment in lessons. But for
some, it’s difficult to get to grips with how lying down can help them learn the Technique. And of course we are always much more likely to do something if we understand why we should. So I thought it would be helpful to give some insight into F.M. Alexander’s own thoughts on the purpose of lying down as remembered by Walter Carrington in conversation with Séan Carey. Here is his answer to the question: “did FM encourage his pupils to lie down between lessons?”
“Yes, he did. He explained that people in their daily activities get pulled down, shortened and out of shape, but lying down and directing serve to create expansion and put them into better shape.”
From my own experience and that of my clients, the real value in terms of learning the Technique is that it provides an ideal time, when there are fewer distractions, to increase your awareness and project ‘consciously’ your directions of lengthening your spine and widening your back, allowing your neck to be released. With regular practice of ‘directing’ while lying down it will become that much easier when you are out and about or sitting at your desk.
walter carrington
It’s time to make time to lie down…
Monday
04
April
2016
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Tagged f.m. alexander, walter carrington
The Alexander Technique for life
I was on a course the other day and one of the facilitators seemed to be sitting very comfortably, in a well-balanced and poised way. On a hunch I asked her whether she had had lessons in the Alexander Technique.
“Well, many years ago,” she replied. “With a friend who trained to be an Alexander Technique teacher with Walter Carrington*.”
I hope this is encouraging to anyone either taking lessons or contemplating doing so, that the principles of the Technique, once learnt, can have life-long benefits.”
*Walter Carrington (1915–2005) was trained by F M Alexander and became a leading exponent of the Technique. He was an inspiration to generations of teachers.
Tagged walter carrington