Generalized Anxiety Disorder and the Alexander Technique
The Alexander Technique can give you tools to interrupt the pattern of excessive worry that characterizes GAD.
Photo by Kaylah Otto on Unsplash
While the Alexander Technique is known by performing artists to relieve performance anxiety, it is also helpful in coping with Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
It is because the Alexander Technique addresses stress in the mind and body that it is beneficial. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, Generalized Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive worry--to the point where a person finds it difficult to control their fears and they struggle to function. Physical symptoms like excess muscular tension accompany the mental stress.
The Alexander Technique can help distract someone with GAD with alternative thoughts to the worry spiral. Thought patterns that focus on undoing excess tension and breathing work can interrupt the cycle of worry. Gradually, the individual will be empowered to use their Alexander Technique thinking to create a sense of calm at will.
The ability to learn and implement the tools of the Alexander Technique doesn’t take long. One lesson will set the student on their way to a new way of being in the world.
A former teacher of mine and the Director of the American Center for the Alexander Technique, Brooke Lieb, wrote an incredible article about using the Alexander Technique to stop anxiety. Here is an exercise from her article:
How to Release Muscle Tension with Direct Intention
Notice a topic you may be concerned about, or worrying over. (There are plenty of issues facing us, such as the state of today's economy.)
Write down the thoughts of concern or worry you are experiencing.
Which ones are based on current facts/circumstances? Which ones are based on what might or might not happen?
Now, take a moment to think of allowing your shoulders and jaw to release some tension. Notice what that is like.
Now, think about something you are concerned or worried about.
Return to releasing your jaw and shoulders. You may have noticed that they tensed again when you put your attention on your concerns.
Continue to move back and forth between actively releasing tension in shoulder and jaw, and thinking about things that worry you.
I would be interested to know if you found this activity to be helpful. Please feel free to share other ways in which you manage stress.
The Alexander Technique and Chronic Illness
There is a way to feel at least a little better in a body that suffers from chronic illness.
Photo by Jakub Kriz on Unsplash
Can someone with a chronic illness study the Alexander Technique? Sure, they can! The Technique is gentle and non-manipulative. Alexander teachers can tailor their lessons to meet their students’ needs. What’s more, having a chronic illness can make life difficult and deplete a person’s energy more quickly than normal, so learning to use less energy throughout the day would be a blessing.
As to how much the Alexander Technique will benefit people with chronic illnesses, it will depend on the individual. There are those who will experience relief from certain symptoms and others who might need more lessons to notice a change. You will know in one lesson if the Alexander Technique is right for you.
When you call to schedule a lesson, be sure to let the Alexander teacher know about your condition and any restrictions you may have. Tell your teacher what makes you uncomfortable and what you find downright painful. Lessons usually run approximately 45 minutes, but perhaps you want to begin with a 20-minute lesson to see how you feel over the next few days? Your teacher will most likely be flexible and understanding. Be sure to tell them during your lesson if you aren’t feeling well or if something they are doing brings you discomfort or anxiety. There are many variations and ways for your teacher to work with you that will allow you to relax and enjoy the lesson. Remember, F.M. Alexander worked with many people who struggled with illness--including himself!
Some chronic illnesses with symptoms alleviated by the Alexander Technique:
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis)