The Alexander Technique

What is the Alexander Technique?

The Alexander Technique is a set of skills that help to relieve stress, manage pain and enhance performance. It is an educational approach in how to use yourself in a way that promotes pyscho-physical unity and working indirectly. When used therapeuticallly, Alexander work is considered a complimentary health care supplement (https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/complementary-alternative-or-integrative-health-whats-in-a-name) when used in collaboration with other therapies. It is not Alternative Therapy.

What should I expect?

The good news is you will not have to learn any new exercises or stretches. We work together on daily activities like standing and sitting, walking and laying down (yes…laying down). There are no special clothing requirements. Just wear what you would normally. There are no special gadgets or doodads to purchase. As we work together, we refine your overall coordination. Once a good working foundation has been reestalished the applications are limitless.

How long does it take?

Learning any new skill has is a learning curve. The Alexander Technique is no different. The Alexander Technique requires time to apply the skills of inhibtion and direction. Many studies use 24 sessions as a starting point. In my experience teaching, this is my recommendation to new students. If you would like to use the technique therapeutically, then expect to work for at least 24 weeks.

When you are ready to take a session email me to book an individual session or join a group class.

How does it work?

Our balance and support mechanisms work in coordination with the head, neck and back. The Technique works to re-establish conscious connection with this relationship to reduce the interference of undue influence of the head, neck and back while working in daily activities. When these mechanisms are allowed to work together, good use spontaneously returns, freedom of movement, easier breathing, natural poise and most importantly the freedom to choose becomes more prevalent.

Who takes lessons?

Many people take lessons for many different reasons here is a list of some of the professions and ways I have worked with individuals to both enhance performance and help prevent injury or rehabilitate.

Playing a musical instrument, voice work, acting, dance, athletes, balance, shoe size, increase range of motion, improve strength and flexibility, before and after surgeries (back, knee, shoulder), ptsd, depression, pregnancy, public speaking, building confidence, repetitive stress injuries and so much more.

Jennifer Sielicki

Jennifer is the director of the Alexander Technique Movement Center, ATMC in Lebanon NH. She has been working with the principles of the Alexander technique and movement for over 30 years both privately and academically. She was first introduced to the technique during her time working in banking. As part of her working process she began study’s in business, finance and psychology, this eventually lead to her desire to want to pursue college. She toured the UK visiting courses and during a college open house she learned about the Alexander technique. It changed her vision and her vocation.

Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with Honors in Performing Arts from De Montfort University, Leicester UK. At that time the course was a unique and small course of 88 students studying Music, Dance, Theater and Arts Administration. Majoring in Dance, the main focus of the course was the Alexander technique and its application to technical ability, creative innovation and performance technique. She completed post graduate studies at the European Dance Development Center (EDDC), Arnhem, NL, spending time at both their Dutch and German Campuses before moving to New York City.

In 2003 Jennifer graduated from the Institute for Research and Development in the Alexander Technique (IRDEAT) in NYC. Throughout her training and for several years after graduating, Jennifer was honored to assist Ann Mathews on the Graduate Acting program at NYU’s Tisch School. She also assisted weekly on both the IRDEAT and the American Center for the Alexander Technique (ACAT) teacher training courses from 2003 through until 2009.

Jennifer operates a private practice offering group and individual classes. She partners with local organizations bringing the work to a diverse population.

Jennifer is currently a Teaching member of the American Society for the Alexander Technique (AmSAT). AmSAT is a not-for-profit organization that upholds teacher training standards and professional expectations in the US. An AmSAT certified teacher has completed 1600 hours of in-person training over 3 years on an AmSAT approved training course. AmSAT training programmes offer the highest level of skill and practice in the US and Internationally. Jennifer is currently the Secretary of the Board and the Chair of the Continuing Education Committee. If you would like to become a supporting member please visit www.alexandertechniqueusa.org.