How long is the lesson?
For On-line private lessons there are several options:
An hour long session is recommended for a new student.
Recurring students may see a lot of change happen in a 30 min. session.
I am also offering a “quick turn” option for recurring students: 15 min check-ins throughout a week. (3 check-ins are a recommended minimum)
On-line Group lessons are between 1hr - 1 hr 30 min. Duration depends on the setting and the size of the group, as well as on topics to be covered.
Overall, transitioning my teaching to online format allowed me to offer students additional options: shorter sessions at a more frequent schedule, which many find useful and convenient.
How many lessons would I need?
- for a curious mind, 2-3 lessons are a good start . It is a small commitment, that gives you an idea of what the technique has to offer, and informs us both if our collaboration will be useful and effective
- inquiring minds would benefit from a series of 10 -14 lessons, this is the most recommended duration to observe a lasting change
- deep divers and serious thinkers may choose to take lessons over a course of several months.
I am a musician. Can I bring my instrument to the session?
As a musician, you spend a lot of time each day practicing and performing. Your musical instrument is an essential part of your life and it affects the way you move on a variety of levels. Alexander Technique lessons are a great way to get reacquainted with yourself and your instrument. I encourage my musician students to bring their instruments, if they feel comfortable doing so. In case you cannot bring your instrument to the session, I also have a number of them in my studio, including an upright base and full size piano.
How often should I have lessons?
A weekly lesson is the most common approach, that works best for majority of people. However, the schedule can be tailored to YOU, your needs and availability.
for example:
the “slow down” approach: starting with weekly sessions, then slowing them down to once or twice a month
the “burst”: coming for lessons twice a week for a month, then taking a break, then resuming the burst
the “nibble”: having occasional lessons, every few months. This works well for someone who already had Alexander Technique lessons in the past, and would like to get a refresher, or wants to explore the technique with different teachers etc.
the “whatchamacallit” - you make a suggestion based on your schedule.
How long does it take to learn the technique?
To address this question I will quote F.M. Alexander himself. In his book “Man’s Supreme Inheritance” he states: “I have been asked the question: “Does it take long to learn the technique?” To answer this in a general way is rather difficult because so much depends on the make-up, the ideas, and the beliefs of the individual pupil.”
To recoup, it differs from student to student, and I would highlight the words ideas and beliefs as first part of the equation. Second part is consciously using your newly acquired knowledge in your everyday life. The frequency of repetition makes all the difference.
What happens in a lesson?
During the very first lesson, we will start off by talking about what brought you to the technique, what your expectations for lessons are and whether there are any medical concerns to take into consideration. You are encouraged to mention any specific goals, questions or issues that you would like to address through our work. During the lesson, you will perform a variety of simple tasks and observe how you use yourself to accomplish them. For example: you may be asked to walk, to sit down, to stand up, to jump etc. You will never be asked to perform a physical activity that is beyond your comfort level at the given moment.
If you seek Alexander Technique lessons to help you with very specific elaborate activity - playing an instrument, singing, dancing, handy work - that’s what we will mostly explore. The lesson is tailored to your unique needs and abilities.
What should I wear?
Everyday comfortable clothes are just fine. It is helpful to wear outfits that let you move around freely, however there are no specific requirements. Some people are interested in finding easier ways to wear outfits that present a challenge in their life (high heels, long dresses, elaborate acting / performing outfits etc). Students can bring such clothing to the lesson.
Where are the lessons held?
I teach most private lessons from my studio in Natick, MA.
Group classes
Workshops for businesses can be offered at your location.