Does Alexander Technique make a difference? Absolutely.
From
George Lister:
Quote:
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From our very first lessons, we are taught that if we don't interfere, we are perhaps able to realize the best of our physical, mental and emotional resources.
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It completely changed the way I approach practicing horn, and the horn playing-caused back pain went away in a few months. All the things that I do that are "physical" are better: rock climbing, kayaking, skiing, horse riding, and so on. My husband played one of his best golf games after a year of not touching his clubs because his skill at the Alexander Technique improved over that time, and he applied his knowledge of the technique to playing golf. (Previously, taking months off added 10-15 strokes.) Basically, improve your thinking and coordination, and your activities will also improve.
It's not just that activities improve, either. In terms of thoughts and emotions, I learned in an experiential way that I can choose how to react to things, and not just that I can choose, but HOW to make that choice.
It takes a long time to learn for a few reasons. One is that it's incredibly subtle. (Don't let the word "subtle" convince you that it isn't powerful, however.) Another reason is that the technique is about choosing not to move (or hold) yourself in the way that is your habit. The way we move is ingrained and unconscious, and it takes time to develop the awareness of what you're doing to the point that you are able to make a choice about what not to do. It's complicated by the fact that what we sense and perceive is often inaccurate, so in the beginning you can only rely on the teacher's instruction and the information you pick up from the teacher's hands.
Learning the technique also presents you with the opportunity to challenge some of your beliefs about yourself.