OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
Coursera logo

Alexander Technique

Balanced Posture for Ease and Comfort

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.

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.

Enroll now

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until March 12, 2027
Save 40% Off 3 Months
Access thousands of top-rated learning programs with a Coursera Plus monthly subscription and take 40% off 3 months for a limited time.
Take
40%
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

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

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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.

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 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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Yoga 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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pilates Instructor
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Personal Trainer
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dance Teacher
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physical 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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Occupational Therapist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Musician
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chiropractor
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Actor
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Massage Therapist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Writer
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Editor
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Librarian
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

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.
Cover image
The Alexander Technique Workbook
Save
Comprehensive manual on the Alexander Technique, providing detailed and practical exercises for improving posture, reducing stress, and enhancing overall movement and coordination.
The Alexander Technique Workbook: Your self-help...
Paperback
$$
The Alexander Technique Workbook: The Complete...
Paperback
$$
The Alexander Technique Workbook: Your self-help...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Becoming a Supple Leopard 2nd Edition
Save
Provides a comprehensive approach to improving movement and resolving pain, with a focus on practical exercises and techniques for optimizing athletic performance and reducing the risk of injury.
Becoming a Supple Leopard 2nd Edition
Paperback
Check
Becoming a Supple Leopard 2nd Edition
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Surgery of the Hip E-Book
Save
Offers a unique perspective on the evolution of human movement and its implications for health and well-being, providing insights into the origins of the mind and the complex relationship between body, movement, and cognition.
Surgery of the Hip: Expert Consult - Online and...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Biotensegrity
Save
Introduces the concept of biotensegrity, a new understanding of the structural organization of living systems, providing insights into the relationship between form, function, and movement.
Biotensegrity: The Structural Basis of Life 2nd...
Paperback
$$
Biotensegrity: The Structural Basis of Life 2nd...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Yoga for Osteoporosis: The Complete Guide
Save
Provides a tailored approach to yoga for athletes, offering exercises and techniques designed to enhance flexibility, balance, and recovery.
Yoga for Osteoporosis: The Complete Guide
Paperback
$$
Yoga for Osteoporosis: The Complete Guide
Paperback
$$
Yoga for Osteoporosis: The Complete Guide
Kindle Edition
$
Yoga for Osteoporosis: The Complete Guide...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Thinking and Doing
Save
Provides an introduction to the Feldenkrais Method, a movement-based approach to improving awareness and developing optimal movement patterns.
Thinking and Doing
Paperback
Check
Thinking and Doing
Kindle Edition
Check

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Alexander Technique: Balanced Posture for Ease and Comfort.
Pain Management: Easing Pain in Palliative Care
Most relevant
Whole Body How to Massage Course by Brian Cavill
Most relevant
Acupressure
Most relevant
Mindfulness: An Approach to Stress Reduction
Most relevant
Reign of Pain
Most relevant
Symptom Management in Palliative Care
Most relevant
Aromatherapy: Clinical Use of Essential Oils
Most relevant
What is Palliative Care?
Most relevant
Introduction to Dental Medicine
Most relevant

Coursera Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

Accredited University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

7-Day Free Trial & Free Audit

7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions; free audit option available on most individual courses to explore video lectures and readings at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Refund Guarantee

14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus subscriptions and single-course purchases prior to certificate issuance. Monthly subscriptions do not offer refunds once billed.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

Accredited university and industry certifications (e.g. Stanford, Google, IBM, Yale), secure SSL payment processing, and verifiable digital certificate links.

Key Purchase Protections
14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus and single courses
7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions
Free course audit option for lectures and readings
Verified certificates from top universities & companies
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Effort
10 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructor
Michelle Obrecht
Language
English
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
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Alexander Technique.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
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