We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Michelle Obrecht
Many of us spend our days sitting at a desk, looking down at our phones, or moving in ways that cause significant discomfort for our bodies. In the Alexander Technique: Balanced Posture for Ease and Comfort, explore how this novel approach to your body’s organization and coordinated movement can help relieve pain and tension, promote calm, improve sleep, and allow you to breathe fully and easily without effort.
Read more
Many of us spend our days sitting at a desk, looking down at our phones, or moving in ways that cause significant discomfort for our bodies. In the Alexander Technique: Balanced Posture for Ease and Comfort, explore how this novel approach to your body’s organization and coordinated movement can help relieve pain and tension, promote calm, improve sleep, and allow you to breathe fully and easily without effort.
Read more
Many of us spend our days sitting at a desk, looking down at our phones, or moving in ways that cause significant discomfort for our bodies. In the Alexander Technique: Balanced Posture for Ease and Comfort, explore how this novel approach to your body’s organization and coordinated movement can help relieve pain and tension, promote calm, improve sleep, and allow you to breathe fully and easily without effort.
The Alexander Technique has been taught for more than 100 years to help artists, musicians, and actors improve their craft, but this method can help anyone examine our body's natural movements and readjust based on the wears and tears of everyday life. Through verbal instructions, graphics, videos, and demonstrations, you’ll learn to better align with our body's natural movements.
By the end of this course, you will be thinking of your relationship to your body and its movements in an entirely new – and more comfortable – way.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/twf11m/alexander
Two deals to help you save
Save money when you learn. Here are two deals and offers that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until July 14
Coursera Plus Annual
Work toward what's next for your career with access to 10,000+ programs. Discover emerging skills and save.
Up to
40%
off
Get offer
Valid until August 30
Google AI App Builder
Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind
Take
100%
off
Get offer
What's inside
Syllabus
Looking at the Mind Body Relationship
This first module introduces the idea that habit underlies all of our movements, and habits can be unlearned and changed. We also look at accessing different parts of the brain to learn how to move in a completely different way. Finally, we look at the origins of the Alexander Technique at the turn of the 20th century.
Read more
Syllabus
Looking at the Mind Body Relationship
This first module introduces the idea that habit underlies all of our movements, and habits can be unlearned and changed. We also look at accessing different parts of the brain to learn how to move in a completely different way. Finally, we look at the origins of the Alexander Technique at the turn of the 20th century.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Relevant for individuals seeking holistic approaches to managing discomfort caused by posture and movement
Improves body awareness and teaches techniques to enhance daily well-being
Taught by an experienced Alexander Technique instructor
Introduces the Alexander Technique's principles and their applicability to daily life
Suitable for individuals at various levels of physical awareness
Provides practical exercises and demonstrations to facilitate learning
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Transformative posture & well-being through alexander technique
According to learners, this Alexander Technique course is a transformative and life-changing experience for improving posture, easing discomfort, and enhancing overall well-being. Students consistently praise the instructor's clear, calm, and knowledgeable guidance, which makes complex concepts accessible. The course provides practical tools and strategies for addressing issues like back and neck pain, shoulder tension, and anxiety through mindful movement and specific modules like breathing exercises. While many find the demonstrations and visual aids highly effective, a few learners noted that deep internalization of the technique requires consistent personal practice and may benefit from additional in-person guidance for full application.
Requires consistent self-practice for deep internalization.
"I sometimes found it difficult to translate the concepts into practical application for myself... needed more personalized feedback."
"It's not a quick fix, but it definitely provides valuable tools... requires consistent practice on the learner's part."
"I feel like I'll need to seek out more advanced practice or an in-person teacher to truly master the technique."
"I struggled to connect the abstract concepts to my own movements."
Specific modules offer valuable insights for mind-body connection.
"I especially appreciated the focus on the head-neck-back relationship and the breathing exercises."
"The detailed instructions on how the torso impacts arm movement were particularly useful."
"The module on calming the nervous system with breath was incredibly effective."
"The discussions on the spine and pelvis alignment were eye-opening."
Offers a profound shift in understanding body movement.
"This course has been a revelation! I've struggled with back pain for years..."
"Absolutely transformative! I'm a musician and have often experienced tension..."
"Life-changing! I never realized how much tension I was holding in my body until taking this course."
"It completely shifted my perspective on movement and posture."
Delivers practical tools for posture, pain relief, and relaxation.
"My posture has improved significantly, and I feel much more ease in my daily movements."
"This course has given me practical ways to approach my instrument with less effort and more freedom."
"I've noticed a significant reduction in my overall anxiety levels."
"My chronic neck pain has vastly improved."
The instructor provides exceptionally clear and calm guidance.
"The instructor's demonstrations are incredibly clear, and the exercises are easy to follow."
"The instructor's calm demeanor and clear instructions make complex ideas accessible."
"The instructor is knowledgeable and conveys the material with great clarity and patience."
"The instructor's voice is soothing, and the pace allows for true absorption."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Alexander Technique: Balanced Posture for Ease and Comfort with these
activities:
Review 'The Alexander Technique: A Guide to Natural Movement' by Michael J. Gelb
Show steps
Understand the principles of the Alexander Technique through this book, and read how this technique can help improve ease and comfort in movement.
View
Body Learning: 40th anniversary edition: An...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book, focusing on the key principles of the Alexander Technique.
-
Summarize the key principles and how they can be applied to daily life.
-
Identify specific movements or activities in your daily life where you can apply the principles.
Watch videos or tutorials on the Alexander Technique
Show steps
supplement your understanding of the technique by observing others demonstrate the principles in action.
Show steps
-
Find videos or tutorials on the Alexander Technique from reputable sources.
-
Watch the videos or tutorials, paying close attention to the demonstrations and explanations.
-
Reflect on the techniques demonstrated and identify areas where you can incorporate them into your own practice.
Join a study group or online forum for the Alexander Technique
Show steps
Engage with a community of like-minded individuals and exchange insights, experiences, and support.
Show steps
-
Search for online forums or study groups dedicated to the Alexander Technique.
-
Introduce yourself and share your goals for practicing the technique.
-
Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your experiences.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice Alexander Technique exercises
Show steps
Integrate the principles of the Alexander Technique into your daily routine through regular practice of specific exercises.
Show steps
-
Choose a simple exercise from the course materials or resources.
-
Practice the exercise for 5-10 minutes each day.
-
Observe and adjust your body's alignment and movements based on the principles of the Alexander Technique.
Keep a journal or blog about your experiences with the Alexander Technique
Show steps
Reflect on your progress, document your insights, and share your journey with others.
Show steps
-
Create a journal or blog specific to your Alexander Technique practice.
-
Regularly record your experiences, observations, and reflections on the technique.
-
Share your insights with others to contribute to the community's understanding.
Volunteer to assist a teacher or therapist in an Alexander Technique class or workshop
Show steps
Gain practical experience and a deeper understanding by assisting others in their Alexander Technique practice.
Show steps
-
Contact local Alexander Technique teachers or therapists to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Attend the class or workshop as a volunteer, assisting with setup, observation, or other tasks.
-
Observe the teacher or therapist's approach and interact with students to gain insights and practical knowledge.
Attend an Alexander Technique workshop or intensive
Show steps
Immerse yourself in the technique and receive personalized guidance from experienced practitioners.
Show steps
-
Research and identify reputable Alexander Technique workshops or intensives.
-
Register and attend the workshop or intensive.
-
Actively participate in the sessions, ask questions, and engage with the instructors and other participants.
Mentor or guide a beginner in the Alexander Technique
Show steps
Solidify your understanding and contribute to the community by helping others embark on their Alexander Technique journey.
Show steps
-
Identify a beginner who is interested in learning the Alexander Technique.
-
Offer your guidance and support, sharing your knowledge and experience.
-
Provide feedback, encouragement, and resources to facilitate their progress.
Review 'The Alexander Technique: A Guide to Natural Movement' by Michael J. Gelb
Show steps
Understand the principles of the Alexander Technique through this book, and read how this technique can help improve ease and comfort in movement.
View
Body Learning: 40th anniversary edition: An...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book, focusing on the key principles of the Alexander Technique.
- Summarize the key principles and how they can be applied to daily life.
- Identify specific movements or activities in your daily life where you can apply the principles.
Watch videos or tutorials on the Alexander Technique
Show steps
supplement your understanding of the technique by observing others demonstrate the principles in action.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find videos or tutorials on the Alexander Technique from reputable sources.
- Watch the videos or tutorials, paying close attention to the demonstrations and explanations.
- Reflect on the techniques demonstrated and identify areas where you can incorporate them into your own practice.
Join a study group or online forum for the Alexander Technique
Show steps
Engage with a community of like-minded individuals and exchange insights, experiences, and support.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online forums or study groups dedicated to the Alexander Technique.
- Introduce yourself and share your goals for practicing the technique.
- Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your experiences.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice Alexander Technique exercises
Show steps
Integrate the principles of the Alexander Technique into your daily routine through regular practice of specific exercises.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a simple exercise from the course materials or resources.
- Practice the exercise for 5-10 minutes each day.
- Observe and adjust your body's alignment and movements based on the principles of the Alexander Technique.
Keep a journal or blog about your experiences with the Alexander Technique
Show steps
Reflect on your progress, document your insights, and share your journey with others.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a journal or blog specific to your Alexander Technique practice.
- Regularly record your experiences, observations, and reflections on the technique.
- Share your insights with others to contribute to the community's understanding.
Volunteer to assist a teacher or therapist in an Alexander Technique class or workshop
Show steps
Gain practical experience and a deeper understanding by assisting others in their Alexander Technique practice.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Contact local Alexander Technique teachers or therapists to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Attend the class or workshop as a volunteer, assisting with setup, observation, or other tasks.
- Observe the teacher or therapist's approach and interact with students to gain insights and practical knowledge.
Attend an Alexander Technique workshop or intensive
Show steps
Immerse yourself in the technique and receive personalized guidance from experienced practitioners.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify reputable Alexander Technique workshops or intensives.
- Register and attend the workshop or intensive.
- Actively participate in the sessions, ask questions, and engage with the instructors and other participants.
Mentor or guide a beginner in the Alexander Technique
Show steps
Solidify your understanding and contribute to the community by helping others embark on their Alexander Technique journey.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a beginner who is interested in learning the Alexander Technique.
- Offer your guidance and support, sharing your knowledge and experience.
- Provide feedback, encouragement, and resources to facilitate their progress.
Career center
Learners who complete Alexander Technique: Balanced Posture for Ease and Comfort will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Yoga Instructor
Yoga Instructor
Yoga Instructors teach yoga, a mind-body practice that combines physical poses, breathing exercises, and meditation. The Alexander Technique's approach to posture and movement can enhance a Yoga Instructor's ability to guide their students safely and effectively through yoga poses. By understanding how to align the body properly, Yoga Instructors can help their students improve their flexibility, strength, and balance, while also reducing the risk of injury.
Pilates Instructor
Pilates Instructor
Pilates Instructors teach Pilates, a low-impact exercise method that focuses on core strength, flexibility, and balance. The Alexander Technique's approach to posture and movement can enhance a Pilates Instructor's ability to guide their students safely and effectively through Pilates exercises. By understanding how to align the body properly, Pilates Instructors can help their students improve their posture, reduce back pain, and enhance their overall fitness.
Personal Trainer
Personal Trainer
Personal Trainers help people improve their overall health and fitness. The Alexander Technique's emphasis on improving posture and movement can provide Personal Trainers with valuable insights into how to help their clients achieve their fitness goals safely and effectively. The course's focus on reducing pain and tension can also benefit Personal Trainers who work with clients with chronic pain conditions.
Dance Teacher
Dance Teacher
Dance Teachers teach dance, a performing art that involves movement and expression. The Alexander Technique's approach to posture and movement can enhance a Dance Teacher's ability to guide their students safely and effectively through dance routines. By understanding how to align the body properly, Dance Teachers can help their students improve their balance, coordination, and overall performance.
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists help patients regain mobility and function after an injury, illness, or surgery. The Alexander Technique's approach to posture and movement can complement a Physical Therapist's existing knowledge and skills, providing them with additional tools to help their patients improve their balance, coordination, and overall physical function. The course's focus on reducing pain and tension can also benefit Physical Therapists who work with patients with chronic pain conditions.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people improve their ability to perform everyday activities and tasks. The Alexander Technique's emphasis on improving posture and movement can provide Occupational Therapists with valuable insights into how to help their clients overcome physical challenges and enhance their overall well-being. The course's focus on reducing stress and anxiety can also benefit Occupational Therapists who work with clients with mental health conditions.
Musician
Musician
Musicians play musical instruments and perform music. The Alexander Technique's emphasis on improving posture and movement can provide Musicians with valuable insights into how to play their instruments comfortably and efficiently. The course's focus on reducing pain and tension can also benefit Musicians who experience discomfort or pain while playing their instruments.
Chiropractor
Chiropractor
Chiropractors help their patients manage pain and improve their overall health and well-being through spinal adjustments and other manual therapies. The Alexander Technique's focus on posture and movement can enhance a Chiropractor's ability to assess and treat patients' musculoskeletal issues. By understanding how to align the body properly, Chiropractors can more effectively reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote overall health.
Actor
Actor
Actors perform in plays, movies, and other productions. The Alexander Technique's approach to posture and movement can enhance an Actor's ability to move and speak naturally and expressively on stage or on camera. By understanding how to align the body properly, Actors can improve their posture, reduce stage fright, and enhance their overall performance.
Massage Therapist
Massage Therapist
Massage Therapists often work with clients who experience pain and tension, and the Alexander Technique's approach to posture and movement can help Massage Therapists better understand how to help their clients alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation. The course's emphasis on improving sleep and breathing can also provide valuable insights for Massage Therapists who work with clients with stress-related conditions.
Writer
Writer
Writers create written works, such as books, articles, and poems. The Alexander Technique's emphasis on improving posture and movement can help Writers overcome physical discomfort and improve their overall writing environment. The course's focus on reducing pain and tension can also benefit Writers who experience discomfort or pain while writing.
Editor
Editor
Editors review and revise written works, such as books, articles, and poems. The Alexander Technique's emphasis on improving posture and movement can help Editors overcome physical discomfort and improve their overall writing environment. The course's focus on reducing pain and tension can also benefit Editors who experience discomfort or pain while editing.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers teach students at all levels, from kindergarten through graduate school. The Alexander Technique's emphasis on improving posture and movement can help Teachers overcome physical discomfort and improve their overall teaching environment. The course's focus on reducing pain and tension can also benefit Teachers who experience discomfort or pain while teaching.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. The Alexander Technique's emphasis on improving posture and movement can help Librarians overcome physical discomfort and improve their overall work environment. The course's focus on reducing pain and tension can also benefit Librarians who experience discomfort or pain while working.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum Curators oversee the care and display of museum collections. The Alexander Technique's emphasis on improving posture and movement can help Museum Curators overcome physical discomfort and improve their overall work environment. The course's focus on reducing pain and tension can also benefit Museum Curators who experience discomfort or pain while working.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/twf11m/alexander
Reading list
We've selected six books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Alexander Technique: Balanced Posture for Ease and Comfort.
Comprehensive manual on the Alexander Technique, providing detailed and practical exercises for improving posture, reducing stress, and enhancing overall movement and coordination.
Provides a comprehensive approach to improving movement and resolving pain, with a focus on practical exercises and techniques for optimizing athletic performance and reducing the risk of injury.
Offers a unique perspective on the evolution of human movement and its implications for health and well-being, providing insights into the origins of the mind and the complex relationship between body, movement, and cognition.
Save
Introduces the concept of biotensegrity, a new understanding of the structural organization of living systems, providing insights into the relationship between form, function, and movement.
Provides a tailored approach to yoga for athletes, offering exercises and techniques designed to enhance flexibility, balance, and recovery.
Save
Provides an introduction to the Feldenkrais Method, a movement-based approach to improving awareness and developing optimal movement patterns.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/twf11m/alexander
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser