About Us
What is the Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique is a wide and varied subject with an equally wide and varied application. A coaching and educational approach using both verbal and manual guidance, the practical skills learned and practiced in a lesson, assist with many different aspects of the human condition. This includes stress relief, pain management, and improved overall performance. The Alexander technique can be used in tandem with prescriptive health care recommendations and as such would be complementary health care. National Center for Complementary and integrative Health (NCCIH)
How does it work?
Our balance and support systems are designed to work in coordination with the head, neck, back and breathing - a central relationship in how we move and function. The Alexander technique helps reestablish a conscious, (not cognitive) working relationship with this connection, reducing the interference caused by routine over tensions that have become unconsciously habituated, and may cause misalignment. When the head, neck, back and breathing are allowed to work together in harmony, our natural coordination is restored. As a result, freedom of movement, easier breathing, and a sense of natural poise begin to reemerge. We also gain the ability to respond to life with greater choice rather than an automatic reaction.
What should I expect?
The good news? You won't have to learn any new exercises or stretches. Instead a typical lesson will focus on your breath in relation to everyday movements - standing, sitting, walking and yes even lying down. These simple activities become the foundation for lasting change.
No special clothing - wear something you can easily move in and is comfortable (and socks).
No Gadgets or doodats to buy - everything you need you already have.
Jennifer
Jennifer has been working with the principles of the Alexander technique for many many years in both private practice and academic settings. She was first introduced to Alexander work while working in banking. As part of her personal and professional development, she began studying Business and Finance Organization and Psychology - a journey that eventually inspired her to pursue University During a college tour, she attended an open house where she encountered the Alexander Technique. That moment proved transformative, reshaping both her vision and her vocation.
Jennifer earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with Honors, in Performing Arts from DeMontfort University in Leicester. At that time, the program was uniquely interdisciplinary, with a small cohort of 88 students studying music, dance, theater and arts administration. Majoring in dance, the course focused intensely on the Alexander technique, exploring its application to technical ability, creative innovation, and performance development. Further, Jennifer received an MA from the European Dance Development Center (EDDC) in Arnhem, Netherlands, where she studied at both their Dutch and German Campuses before relocating to New York City in the USA.
In 2003, Jennifer graduated from the Institute for Research and Development in the Alexander Technique (IRDEAT) in NYC. During her training and for several years after graduating, she had the honor of assisting Ann Mathews on the graduate acting program at NYU's Tish School of the Arts. She also served as a regular assistant on this training course until 2006 when the school shuttered its doors. Parallel to this Jennifer also became volunteer faculty, training teachers at the American Center for the Alexander Technique from 2003-2009.
Jennifer operates a private practice where she offers individual lessons, group classes and workshops in the Alexander technique. She actively partners with local organizations to bring the Alexander work to a wide and diverse population.
She is a certified teaching member of the American Society for the Alexander Technique (AmSAT). The largest professional organization for Alexander technique teachers in the United States. AmSAT maintains rigorous professional standards and expectations for training and professional practice.
Certification requires 1600 hours of in-person instruction over a minimum of three years. This is considered among the highest standards of Alexander technique training both nationally and internationally.
Jennifer currently volunteers with AmSAT. She was elected to serve as the Secretary of the Board of Directors and is the Chair of the Continuing Education Committee. To learn more and to become a supporting member, please visit www.alexandertechniqueuse.org
How long does it take to learn?
Like with learning any skill, the Alexander technique comes with a learning curve.
It takes time to redevelop the core principles of inhibition and direction, which are central to the work. Many studies use a minimum of 24 sessions as a benchmark for meaningful progress - in my experience, this is a solid starting point recommended to new students.
If you're looking to use the Technique in a more therapeutic way, it's helpful to plan for at least 24 weekly sessions. This gives you and your body and mind time to reintegrate gradually and sustainably.
When you're ready to begin click the link below, call or email. I am happy to help you get started.
Volunteer
Currently Jennifer presents workshops three times a year. She is in need of volunteer help with the up and coming workshops on June 13th and October 17th.
What are you agreeing to?
There are two areas that Jenny needs help with:
1. Checkin and general - Greeting and checking in people, helping with tea and coffee during the break, bathrooms etc.
2. IT - set up, run and take down of a powerpoint presentation.
If you would like to help out or have something you can offer, please contact Jennifer at naturalpoise@gmail.com.