Origins of the Alexander Technique

F. M. Alexander

1869–1955

F. M. Alexander was an Australian actor who experienced chronic laryngitis when he performed. When his doctors could not help him, Alexander decided to look for a solution on his own. Over time, he became aware of excess tension in his neck and back and found this tension was causing his problem. He set out to learn new ways to speak and move with greater ease.

His voice quality and health improved so much that his friends persuaded him to teach what he had learned. Over 50 years of teaching, he continually refined this process. After teaching for 35 years, he began to train teachers in what is now known as the Alexander Technique.