We have a saying in the Alexander Technique “Good breathing does itself, the only thing we can do is mess it up”. So the aim in lessons is to observe our breathing to see if we are indeed interfering and see if we can get back to natural breathing. Being in centred support with the feet really makes a huge difference. In lessons we would do some observation exercises and some exercises to encourage expansion and freedom in the rib cage.

 

We all have habits around breathing. We may actually hold our breath when listening to someone or when we are concentrating on something. This can make us feel quite anxious. Some people mouth breath which may result in our ribs becoming fixed. Other habits could include over breathing. Many musicians and singers may have picked up habits from the way they have been trained, there are things we need to do when playing or singing but we shouldn’t be carrying these into normal breathing. Try this experiment – sit in a chair and make a hissing sound, then go into a real slump and make the sound again. Is there a difference? Imagine the difference when you are properly supported using appropriate muscle tone.

 

The Technique can help such breathing difficulties as asthma as it allows us to become more aware of our breathing mechanism as a whole. We may notice we have deep seated habits around breathing and by using the Technique we can begin to breath more naturally.

 

These are just a few comment from my clients:

"I've had trouble with my voice for years but now my voice is not so hoarse and it doesn't seem to run out on me like it used to. This week I was thrilled that I was able to sing several songs with my band that I play with, something I couldn't do a few weeks ago."

Mike

 

“I thought I would apply my Alexander Technique at my weekly singing class, I got myself in centred support and I was amazed when this different sound came out of my mouth. Much deeper and a whole new resonance to it”

Mark

 

Concerned about your breathing? Why not try an introductory session.