Testimonials

Some of my clients have been kind enough to share their thoughts about the Alexander Technique:

Tony, client beginning fall of 2008, writes:

"My job means requires that I sit at a computer much of the day, and it was starting to get significant neck and upper back pain . Then, a year and a half ago, I threw out my shoulder. Liz has helped me with both “hands-on” pain relief and coaching on how to use my body in ways that avoid or minimize problems.

The hands-on treatment seems like a blend of Tai Chi and very gentle massage, except that she actively MOVES my limbs and body. She taught me various ways to arch, extend and twist my spine which feel fantastic when my back hurts. But she also recommends ways to hold or use my body to avoid problems. One general principle is "bend your neck from to very top vertebrae"- that helps avoid neck pain with everything from office deskwork to chopping vegetables.

I like the Alexander Technique because it puts me in control- if I want to feel better, I can get up from my desk at work and arch my back and hang my arms like a chimpanzee. It may make me look goofy to my co-workers, but it's like giving myself a massage! And the body positioning tips are similar to committing yourself to do physical therapy, but instead of making time to do a bunch of different exercises, I am continually doing things in the course of everyday activities which tone up the exact muscles affected by those same everyday activities.

I still go in occasionally for hands-on work, on the various pains that pop up in life, and it the processes still amazes me. I can give Liz a brief description of the problem, and without a word she somehow homes in on a handful of affected muscles and gives some gentle relief. But as importantly, the treatment reminds me of what I am supposed to be doing to avoid that sort of pain."

Suzanne, client since 2005, writes:

“To me, an Alexander Technique session feels like a cross between very, very gentle bodywork (imagine an incredibly tender, yet effective massage), and very gentle exercise.  In each session, Liz adapts to the student’s changing needs.  You don’t have to have a specific “problem” to overcome; Alexander Technique can benefit anyone.  But when I do have a specific issue, like a sore wrist or tight shoulders, Liz guides my body to release the unhealthy pattern of holding, and brings (often immediate) relief.  Sometimes I love the opportunity to zone out and relax; other days, I love the physical and intellectual challenge, as I seek to grasp the scientific or anatomical principles at work, and make connections to what I have learned from yoga, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and T’ai Chi.  The focus on body awareness and the opportunity to connect mind, body and spirit can even be a spiritual practice; it is certainly a powerful healing art.”