Man's Supreme Inheritance
by F M Alexander

Published 2003 (7^th Edition)                  284 pages

This is the first of Alexander's four books. It was first published in 1910. This edition, published in 1996 by Mouritz, has been meticulously edited, with extensive notes, by Jean Fischer.  It contains two prefaces by Alexander, an introduction by John Dewey, and the section "To My Reader" with appreciations which were included in the 1918 Methuen edition but accidentally left out of later editions. Ten appendices contain further material which was omitted from earlier editions, reviews of the 1910 and the 1918 editions, extracts from reviews, a printing history and a text comparison table of the 1910 and the 1918 editions.  As well as the original photographs the book contains additional illustrations.  Foreword by Walter Carrington.

Alexander had previously written and published a number of leaflets and pamphlets about his work and a lot of this material is incorporated into this book. The big difference between this book and the earlier publications is the scope and magnitude of Alexander's vision. The earliest papers are concerned with speech and elocution - "Speech Culture and Natural Elocution", for instance. Later papers are concerning with breathing - "Introduction to a New Method of Respiratory Vocal Re-Education", and "The Dangers of Deep Breathing", for instance. In "Man's Supreme Inheritance" Alexander regards his discoveries as offering mankind the opportunity to make progress using conscious awareness as the means of taking control of one's manner of use (seeing "use" in the widest possible way). He believes that he brings this message at a time when mankind is rapidly regressing, responding to the ever greater demands of our evolving world in ways that an instinctive and inappropriate, inadequate for our current needs.

The book does not contain much practical explanation - although as you understand the significance of Alexander's proposals so you might see the practical implications of his work. For the most practical exposition that Alexander ever wrote, read his third book, "The Use of the Self".

Constructive Conscious Control of the Individual
by F M Alexander

Published 2004                        280 pages

Constructive Conscious Control of the Individual, first published in 1923, was Alexander's second book.  This new edition contains two prefaces by Alexander, an introduction by John Dewey, and a new foreword by Walter Carrington. Ten appendices contain reviews of the first edition. The introductory notes by Jean Fischer discuss Alexander's concept of sensory appreciation and the chapter "Illustration". The notes also provide a printing history and a table of changes between the 1923 and the 1946 editions. The book contains several illustrations which have never been published before. This is also the first edition ever of Constructive Conscious Control to feature an index.

In Conscious Control, Alexander once again sets out his understanding of his discoveries and their implications. His preoccupation is that humans have all developed poor use of themselves and that they can only address this and improve their use by developing a conscious awareness of what they are doing. The theme that links the sections of the book is "sensory appreciation". According to Alexander a consequence of our misuse is that our sensory appreciation is debauched. Our unreliable sensory appeciation is both the result and the cause of our further decline. Only by a process of re-education can improved sensory appreciation lead to improved use.

The Use of the Self
by F M Alexander

Published 2001                        118 pages

The Use of the Self is the clearest and most approachable of Alexander's books. This issue published in 1985 and reissued in 2001 is a mass market presentation of this classic work, including an introduction by Dr Wilfred Barlow.

In the first and longest chapter of the book Alexander sets out the story of how he made his discoveries and the reasons that he set out on his quest. Having started on a successful acting career, he began to have trouble with his voice. He sought the help of voice trainers and medical men but nobody was able to help. Eventually he concluded that the problem was that he was doing something wrong - he was using his voice badly. He set out to find out what he was doing and in the process discovered that his interference was not just with his voice but with his whole way of using himself. It understanding this and developing a technique to improve his poor use of himself he evolved what is now known as the "Alexander Technique", a method by which anybody can improve their use and gain the benefits of so doing.

The Universal Constant in Living
by F M Alexander

Published 2000                        416 pages

This is Alexander's fourth and final book, first published in 1941.  To the original appendices are added reviews of the first edition of The Universal Constant in Living, and one appendix contains material which was omitted from the first edition.  Walter Carrington has also written a new foreword for this edition. The introductory notes deal with Alexander's principle of wholeness and of prevention, the writing of The Universal as well as notes on changes in the text.

In addition, a substantial number of notes give information on people, places, events, and subjects referred to throughout the book. Comprehensive cross-references and a new, detailed index are also provided. As well as the original photographs the book contains additional illustrations. One of the photographs proves that Alexander (albeit unknowingly) used the wrong picture of the Army's standing-to-attention position.

The Universal Constant in Living contains Alexander’s most mature and consummate thoughts on the Technique.  In it he shares with the reader knowledge accumulated in the course of more than 45 years of practical teaching experience.  Having fully developed the concepts of his technique, he presents a clear exposition of the fundamental principles: prevention (inhibition), the primary control of use, and the unity (wholeness) of the human organism, among others.

Articles and Lectures
by F M Alexander

Published 1995                        400 pages

We should all feel indebted to Jean Fischer who has brought these papers together in a wonderfully annotated volume that gives us a more complete view of Alexander's writing throughout his life than we can get from the four books alone.  This book is the first published compilation of F M Alexander's articles, published letters and lectures on the Alexander Technique. The book consists of six sections: Early Articles; Published Letters; Lectures; Teaching Aphorisms; "Alexander and the Doctors"; Autobiographical Sketch.  Each paper is preceded by an introduction which gives the historical context.

In addition, a substantial number of notes provide information on people, places, events and particular subjects which were part of Alexander's life and times.  Comprehensive cross-references and a detailed index are also given.

Aphorisms
by F M Alexander

Published 2000                        96 pages

This wonderful collection of Aphorisms were collected at various times by Alexander's pupils and his assistant teachers.  These teaching aphorisms from Alexander's lessons provide succinct insights into the working of the Alexander Technique.  Readers familiar with the Technique will discover much of interest – especially concerning the influence which habit and feeling have on human behaviour.  The meditative illustrations were created by the artist Birgit Meyer-Woycke, who has studied the Alexander Technique for many years.

Never Ask Why - Life Adventures of Kitty Wielopolska
by Joe Armstrong

Published 2001                        158 pages

Kitty Weilopolska was one of the students on FM Alexander's first training course. This volume of her memories, which was only published in 2003, is both a fascinating read in its own right and also serves to balance the memories of Alexander set down by Kitty's friend and companion Lulie Westfeldt in her own memoir called "F.M.A. The Man and his Work".  This book is not only the remarkable memoir of Kitty Merrick Wielopolska's (1900-1988) self-recovery from schizophrenia, but also an inspiring account of the well-established method of psycho-physical re-education that is the Alexander Technique.   It contains insightful material for the fields of psychology, psychiatry and self-improvement.  The publishers say that both the specialist and the lay person can benefit from reading it.

The blurb on the back says...
This book is not only the remarkable memoir of Kitty Merrick Wielopolska's (1900-1988) self-recovery from schizophrenia, but also an inspiring account of the well-established method of psycho-physical re-education called the Alexander Technique.  It contains insightful material for the fields of psychology, psychiatry and self-improvement. Both the specialist and the lay person can benefit from reading it.

About the Author
Joe Armstrong trained to become an Alexander teacher in London with Walter and Dilys Carrington and Peggy Williams from 1969 to 1972.  Following that, he worked intensively with Frank Pierce Jones from 1973 to 1975 at Tufts University doing post-graduate research on the Alexander Technique in musical performance.  For thirty-five years he specialised in teaching the Alexander Technique to musicians and other performing artists, and from 1977 to 1988 also directed an Alexander teacher training course.  In June of 2007 he "officially" retired from teaching the Alexander Technique in order to devote himself more fully to music, painting, and translating; but he still gives lessons occasionally. 

The Art of Running
by Malcolm Balk and Andrew Shields

Published 2000            144 pages

Malcolm Balk's book "The Art of Running" has been superseded by his updated version which he has called "Master the Art of Running".   We do however still have some copies of the original title

still available on SPECIAL OFFER.

According to the publishers, for millions of regular runners, and for many of those new to the sport, physical and mental barriers can stop progress far short of full potential. Too often, an activity which should be pleasurable and fulfilling instead leads to frustration and injury. The Art of Running is based on the proven principles of the Alexander Technique, which encourage good use of the body and greater awareness of the way it functions.  Malcolm Balk and Andrew Shields show the reader how to achieve and maintain fitness without injury and how to overcome self-imposed limitations to enjoyable and successful running. The authors' perspective on the sport as an art takes them into areas rarely touched on in conventional coaching manuals. A variety of personal accounts and more than 40 carefully selected photographs enhance this practical and inspirational guide.

The blurb on the back says...

The art of running is to be found in the process - the act itself. The beauty of this art is that it can be recreated in every step. The past doesn't matter, it's the next step that counts...

For millions of regular runners, and for many of those new to the sport, physical and mental barriers can stop progress far short of full potential. Too often, an activity which should be pleasurable and fulfilling instead leads to frustration and injury.

The Art of Running is based on the proven principles of the Alexander Technique, which encourage good use of the body and greater awareness of the way it functions. Malcolm Balk and

Andrew Shields show the reader how to achieve and maintain fitness without injury and how to overcome self-imposed limitations to enjoyable and successful running.

The authors' perspective on the sport as an art takes them into areas rarely touched on in conventional coaching manuals. A variety of personal accounts and more than 40 carefully selected photographs enhance this practical and inspirational guide. Whether you are a novice or an experienced runner, The Art of Running will give you real insight into the sport and how you can transform your training and performance.

About the Author
Malcolm Balk is a qualified Alexander Technique teacher, specialising in working with runners of all standards, and a Level 4 track coach in Montreal, Canada.  Andrew Shields is Sport and Fitness Editor of Time Out magazine in London.  He has twice been a runner-up in the British Sports Journalism Awards.

Master the Art of Running
by Malcolm Balk and Andrew Shields

Published 2009            160 pages

This is a follow up to "The Art of Running" with supplemented material.   It aims to teach us how to approach running in a new and refreshing way.  We are encouraged to look at running as an art rather than just a way of getting fit.  Balk and Shields have developed a way of understanding running that is based on the principles of the Alexander Technique.  In the book running is broken down into components: going into movemnet, how the feet hit the ground, the position of the arms, what happens to each body part when running, balance and posture.  The primary aim is that we think about what we are doing so that we run with greater ease, efficiency and grace.  The book is full of tips on how to improve technique and is aimed at a range of runners from long-distance to track.  Also includes analysis of the techniques of world famous runners and inspiring case studies.

The blurb on the back says...

"Running for miles and miles isn't intelligent. All it does it turn you into a zombie - and a marathon runner! So how do you create the spice of life? You have to be curious. You have to be looking for things. Don't shut the doors. If work and more work was the be-all and end-all of producing success, all the bloody labourers would be millionaires. It's intelligent work which builds progress.

You've go to use your brains. Be guided by your heart but follow your brains. Now let's get stuck into it."  Percy Cerutty, Olympic coach

About the Author
Malcolm Balk is a qualified Alexander Technique teacher, specialising in working with runners of all standards, and a Level 4 track coach in Montreal, Canada.  Andrew Shields is Sport and Fitness Editor of Time Out magazine in London.  He has twice been a runner-up in the British Sports Journalism Awards. 

Master the Art of Running
by Malcolm Balk and Andrew Shields

Published 2006            160 pages

This is a follow up to "The Art of Running" with supplemented material.   It aims to teach us how to approach running in a new and refreshing way.  We are encouraged to look at running as an art rather than just a way of getting fit.  Balk and Shields have developed a way of understanding running that is based on the principles of the Alexander Technique.  In the book running is broken down into components: going into movemnet, how the feet hit the ground, the position of the arms, what happens to each body part when running, balance and posture.  The primary aim is that we think about what we are doing so that we run with greater ease, efficiency and grace.  The book is full of tips on how to improve technique and is aimed at a range of runners from long-distance to track.  Also includes analysis of the techniques of world famous runners and inspiring case studies.

The blurb on the back says...

"Running for miles and miles isn't intelligent. All it does it turn you into a zombie - and a marathon runner! So how do you create the spice of life? You have to be curious. You have to be looking for things. Don't shut the doors. If work and more work was the be-all and end-all of producing success, all the bloody labourers would be millionaires. It's intelligent work which builds progress.

You've go to use your brains. Be guided by your heart but follow your brains. Now let's get stuck into it."  Percy Cerutty, Olympic coach

About the Author
Malcolm Balk is a qualified Alexander Technique teacher, specialising in working with runners of all standards, and a Level 4 track coach in Montreal, Canada.  Andrew Shields is Sport and Fitness Editor of Time Out magazine in London.  He has twice been a runner-up in the British Sports Journalism Awards. 

Master the Art of Working Out
by Malcolm Balk and Andrew Shields

Published 2007            176 pages

This book offers a new approach to fitness training based on the principles of the Alexander Technique.  The authors aim to teach us how to make exercise more thoughtful and stimulating by looking at working out as an art rather than just a means to an end.  All aspects of gym-based exercise are covered - resistance training, using machines and free weights, fitness classes,

flexibility, cardiovascular and core training - with the emphasis on total awareness of the 'how' and 'why' of what you are doing so that you can better understand your body and, in turn, work out with greater ease, efficiency and grace.  The book is full of tips for dedicated gym-goers as well as beginners, and includes inspiring case studies.

About the Author
Malcolm Balk is a qualified Alexander Technique teacher, specialising in working with runners of all standards, and a Level 4 track coach in Montreal, Canada.  Andrew Shields is Sport and Fitness Editor of Time Out magazine in London.  He has twice been a runner-up in the British Sports Journalism Awards.

An Examined Life
by Marjory Barlow

Published 2002            333 pages

An Examined Life is a series of interviews with Alexander’s niece, Marjory Barlow (born 1915), conducted by fellow Alexander teacher Trevor Davies between 1996-2000.  Marjory’s years of experience with the Alexander Technique and her early years with FM Alexander and AR Alexander are shared with us in the pages that follow.  Trained by FM Alexander from 1932-36, Marjory spent a total of eight years working with her uncle on a daily basis and her memories are invaluable to the Alexander community.  This is an attractive volume, with a readable design and important content.  Trevor Allan Davies has distilled his extensive interviews with Marjory Barlow into a manageable number of pages, with interesting appendices as a bonus, including her 1965 and 1995 FM Alexander Memorial Lectures, and training course notes from several of her trainees.

The Alexander Principle
by Dr Wilfrid Barlow

Published 1974                        254 pages

This book, which was first published in 1974, was the first book in the UK to bring the Alexander Technique to a wide audience.  Dr Barlow succeeded in his two aims of writing a readable and popular book while at the same time establishing that the Technique had credibility from the scientific and medical point of view and that the medical profession should take the Alexander Technique seriously.

The Alexander Principle is now a classic. The original edition is now out of print, but the American edition republished in 1990 as The Alexander Technique – How to Use Your Body Without Stress - is essential reading for everyone interested in the Technique.

About the Author
Wilfred Barlow was a medical doctor who married Alexander's niece and worked with Alexander for many years.  He became one of the foremost proponents of the Alexander Technique and the founder of the Alexander Institute and the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique.  Dr Barlow trained with Alexander 1938-45 and subsequently worked with Alexander until 1949. He utilises his experiences as both a teacher of the Technique and a consultant rheumatologist to introduce the Technique from a medical viewpoint: how use affects our health.

The Alexander Technique - How to Use Your Body Without Stress
by Dr Wilfred Barlow

Published 1990            222 pages

This book, which was first published in 1974, was the first book in the UK to bring the Alexander Technique to a wide audience.  Dr Barlow succeeded in his two aims of writing a readable and popular book while at the same time establishing that the Technique had credibility from the scientific and medical point of view and that the medical profession should take the Alexander Technique seriously.

The Alexander Principle is now a classic. The original edition is now out of print, but the American edition republished in 1990 as The Alexander Technique – How to Use Your Body Without Stress - is essential reading for everyone interested in the Technique. The many illustrations of people’s posture and X-rays of heads-and-necks show examples of misuse. A classic, somewhat medical, introduction which has stayed relevant for many years. This later paperback edition has been revised, updated and reset, and contains a new foreword.

About the Author
Wilfred Barlow was a medical doctor who married Alexander's niece and worked with Alexander for many years.  He became one of the foremost proponents of the Alexander Technique and the founder of the Alexander Institute and the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique.  Dr Barlow trained with Alexander 1938-45 and subsequently worked with Alexander until 1949. He utilises his experiences as both a teacher of the Technique and a consultant rheumatologist to introduce the Technique from a medical viewpoint: how use affects our health.

More Talk of Alexander
by Dr Wilfred Barlow

Published 2005                        340 pages

This book consists of 36 articles on the Alexander Technique, many of which have become classics and now only available in this volume.  In More Talk of Alexander Dr Barlow has carefully selected  articles on many and varied facets of the Alexander Technique including education, psychology, theology, art, science, and medicine. Some of these articles first appeared in the Alexander Journal and some are edited articles of Barlow’s own research into the Technique with additional information. Among the many impressive contributors are: Aldous Huxley, John Dewey, Marjory Barlow (Alexander’s niece), Dr Nina Meyer, Dr Robin Skynner, Dr Grahame Fagg, Dr Peter Macdonald, Fr Geoffrey Curtis, and the Nobel-prize winner, Professor Nikolaas Tinbergen.  Barlow has also included articles critical of the Technique: his report on the libel action which Alexander brought and won in South Africa, Dr Skynner’s impression of his first twelve lessons, and Dr Barlow’s own recommendations for the qualities pupils should seek in a teacher of the Technique.

This collection is ideal for readers who wish to become better acquainted with the Technique and who seek a deeper understanding of its potential through its many possible applications.

About the Author
Wilfred Barlow was a medical doctor who married Alexander's niece and worked with Alexander for many years.  He became one of the foremost proponents of the Alexander Technique and the founder of the Alexander Institute and the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique.  Dr Barlow trained with Alexander 1938-45 and subsequently worked with Alexander until 1949. He utilises his experiences as both a teacher of the Technique and a consultant rheumatologist to introduce the Technique from a medical viewpoint: how use affects our health.

Marjorie Barstow, Her Teaching and Training
by Marjorie Barstow, Edited by Barbara Conable

Published 1988            166 pages

A collection of essays by Marjorie Barstow's students, produced in celebration of her 90th birthday.  Some are intellectually demanding - and intellectually rewarding!   Marjorie Barstow, from Lincoln, Nebraska was the first person to graduate from F M Alexander's first training course in 1933.  After working as A R Alexander's assistant in Boston and New York in the 1930s, she returned to Lincoln.  She continued teaching until shortly before her death in 1995 at the age of 95.  During the last 2 decades of her teaching, she attracted thousands of students to her workshops Lincoln, and around the world, with her unique approach to teaching Alexander's discoveries.  These essays therefore are a testament to her legacy as a master teacher of the Alexander Technique, with her emphasis on students taking responsibility for themselves.

More information from www.marjoriebarstow.com

Better Eyesight Without Glasses

(The Bates Method)

by W H Bates

Published 1974                        254 pages

W H Bates developed a method of retraining the eye muscles to work without glasses.  The Bates method restores sight firstly by a series of exercises that relax and soothes the eye muscles; and secondly retrains the relaxed eyes to focus more effectively.  His theories are controversial and not universally accepted, but millions around the world are said to have improved their vision with the Bates Method. The exercises are simple and easy to follow throughout. 

About the Author
William Horatio Bates (December 23, 1860 – July 10, 1931) was an American physician who practiced ophthalmology and developed what became known as the Bates Method for better eyesight.

Working with Companies
by Alan Bignell

Published 2004                        56 pages

This is an A4 ringbound paper based on a workshop given by Alan Bignell to Alexander Technique Teachers at Lansdowne Road on 28 November 2004.  It is intended to provide a practical framework for AT teachers for approaching companies.  Alan has a very simple, down to earth approach to the Technique which is illustrated in this book. It gives insights into the principles and practice of bringing the Alexander Technique into organisations.

About the Author
Alan Bignell MSTAT specialises in working within organisations.  He first came in touch with the Alexander Technique some 20 years ago and trained with Misha Magidov at the North London Alexander Teacher Training School.  He works at the Bloomsbury Alexander Centre in London and has specialised in giving Alexander lessons to employees within their work place.  Among the organisations he has worked with are ICI, the German Embassy and Grey Worldwide.

The Expanding Self
by Goddard Binkley

Published 1993            178 pages

This is an extensive diary of Goddard Binkley's lessons with F M Alexander and also includes notes and observations on Alexander's teacher training course. His book is divided into three parts with a foreword by Walter Carrington.  Part 1 contains a description of his life prior to his contact with the Technique and reveals him to be someone of wide interests, but with personal problems, both “mental” and “physical”, that restricted his personal growth and development. Part 2 is an account, in diary form, of his lessons with Alexander (1951-53). Part 3 continues with an account (also in diary form) of his experiences on the training course (1953-57).

Throughout the diary Goddard has thoughtfully inserted quotations from Alexander’s four books to underline and explain the many difficulties he had during his lessons. He was not a ‘silent’ pupil and Alexander encouraged him to ask questions.  What comes across so strongly in the diary is Alexander’s liveliness and energy (he was 82 when Goddard started his lessons).  Binkley's observations about the Technique, and his own struggles with depression, provide a fascinating read.

About the Author
Goddard Binkley (1920-1987) began having lessons in the Alexander Technique during his studies for a Ph.D. in Sociology at the New School for Social Research, New York. He went to London in 1951 for a course of individual lessons with F.M. Alexander. He joined F.M. Alexander's last teacher training course in 1953 and qualified in 1957.  He taught the technique in the U.S. from 1959 to 1981 and in Paris from 1981 to 1987.  He ran Alexander Technique teacher training courses from 1975-1987.

The Muscle Book
by Paul Blakey

Published 1992                        48 pages

The idea for this book came whilst Blakey was teaching anatomy and physiology to dance students.  He wanted to produce what he calls something like a 'car repair manual'.  So it is really a body parts manual, concentrating on muscles - what they look like, what they are attached to, what they do, what happens when they weaken, what to watch out for to avoid injury and some simple first aid.  The book includes many illustrations and clear diagrams.  The book clearly identifies all the major muscles of the human body, and shows how they work. For each muscle there is straight forward information about first aid by massage, and an indication of particular dangers to watch out for.

Although not specifically related to the Alexander Technique, it is an excellent anatomical reference for students.

About the Author
Paul Blakey, formerly an international ballet dancer is now a practising osteopath., has written and illustrated this book to help everyone who needs to know more about their own muscles, and how to look after them. The book clearly identifies all the major muscles of the human body, and shows how they work. For each muscle there is straight forward information about first aid by massage, and an indication of particular dangers to watch out for.

The Life of Alexander
by Michael Bloch

Published 2004            276 pages

This first full biography of Alexander written by a professional biographer is excellent on both the overview of Alexander's life and on the detail.  Although much of the source material for this book was readily available, most notably in Jean Fischer's edited editions of Alexander's books, in the short volume on Alexander's early years called "Up From Down Under" and in the family biography by Alexander's neice Jacky Evans, Bloch has created a synthesis of this and other information to give at last a clear picture in one volume of the whole of Alexander's life.

The blurb on the back says...

In 1892 a young Australian actor found himself afflicted by a strange hoarseness whenever he started to recite. Observing himself in mirrors, he worked out that his problem arose from habitual 'misuse' in the relationship of the head, neck and back. Gradually, he evolved a practical method of overcoming the problem. The man was F.M. Alexander and his method became known as the Alexander Technique, a unique form of muscular re-education which is now practised across the world and is standard training for actors, dancers and singers in the UK.

Michael Bloch's elegantly written and meticulously researched biography is the first to appear of this widely admired individual. From his harsh beginnings in Tasmania to his growing success in Melbourne, Sydney and London, from the dedication of followers such as John Dewey and Aldous Huxley to his famous libel case against the South African governnment, it reveals the stenghths and weaknesses of a man who, though an enigma to his contemporaries, is now recognised as one of the most remarkable innovators of his time.

"My book of the year...An absolutely first-class work of scholarship, lucidly presented and fascinating to read."
Hugh Trevor Roper, Spectator

"This new biography is impressive not simply because it is definitive and well written, but because it has the resonance of a moral fable, relevant to any system, any age."
Robert Harris, Sunday Times

About the Author
Michael Bloch is a professional author/biographer.  He was born in 1953 and trained for the law. He is the author of several books on the Windsors as well as other acclaimed works of non-fiction.

The Alexander Technique Manual
by Richard Brennan

Published 1999                        144 pages

This is an attractive 'mass market' book which aims to explain the key principles of the Alexander Technique in simple language with clear illustrations. It is perhaps the most lavishly illustrated book on the market - the first "coffee table" type of book to be produced.   It is written in an easy-to-read style. There are tips on improving posture at work and home, sections on sports and pregnancy. The book is suitable for anyone, with or without experience of the Alexander Technique.

Illustrated with full-colour photographs throughout. It makes clear that nothing can substitute for the experience of having lessons with a qualified teacher of the Alexander Technique, but is a good introduction for the layman and admirably succeeds in explaining what the technique is and how it works and to motivate the reader to take the technique further with one-to-one lessons or group workshops.

About the Author
Richard Brennan ATI, MSTAT has studied the Alexander Technique since 1983.  He runs a busy practice in Galway, teaches numerous classes and gives, talks, lectures and workshops throughout Europe and is also the national contact for Alexander Technique International in Ireland, a world-wide organisation whose aim is to bring the Technique to a greater audience.  He has written a number of books on the Alexander Technique.

The Alexander Technique - A Practical Introduction
by Richard Brennan

Published 1999                        150 pages

This is a straightforward, easy-to-read introduction to the Alexander Technique for those who know a little or nothing about the Technique. This book, however also claims to be helpful for those who are already having Alexander Technique lessons.  While still very readable it contains numerous exercises and procedures that you can follow to enhance your knowledge of the technique. This book is an updated version of the very popular Alexander Technique Workbook which sold over 80,000 copies.

Illustrated with clear line drawings.  Richard Brennan takes time to explain how Alexander himself first became aware of stresses in his own body which were impeding his performance as an actor and reciter. Through experimentation he discovered how to use his entire body more efficiently, and how different body parts all influence each other for better or worse according to how we use them.  The book explains these techniques in clear sections.  It does not claim to be a substitute for Alexander lessons with a qualified teacher, but it is a decent introduction and contains some practical advice and tips.

About the Author
Richard Brennan ATI, MSTAT has studied the Alexander Technique since 1983.  He runs a busy practice in Galway, teaches numerous classes and gives, talks, lectures and workshops throughout Europe and is also the national contact for Alexander Technique International in Ireland, a world-wide organisation whose aim is to bring the Technique to a greater audience.  He has written a number of books on the Alexander Technique.

Mind and Body Stress Relief with the Alexander Technique
by Richard Brennan

Published 1998                        185 pages

As the title suggests this book contains advice on how to reduce physical, mental and emotional stress with the Alexander Technique. Topics covered include worry, depression, insomnia and panic attacks. Like the other books it is also suitable for those new to the Technique as well as those who have had Alexander Technique lessons.  Explains how the stress of the mind directly causes excessive muscle tension.  Illustrated with line drawings.

About the Author
Richard Brennan ATI, MSTAT has studied the Alexander Technique since 1983.  He runs a busy practice in Galway, teaches numerous classes and gives, talks, lectures and workshops throughout Europe and is also the national contact for Alexander Technique International in Ireland, a world-wide organisation whose aim is to bring the Technique to a greater audience.  He has written a number of books on the Alexander Technique.

The Alexander Technique Workbook
by Richard Brennan

Published 2011                        160 pages

This is one of best selling books about the Alexander Technique on the market today with the first edition selling over 100,000 copies. This brand new edition has been completely revised and updated and now contains extra chapters and dozens of colour photographs and clear illustrations to help you gain a good understanding of the principles of the Technique. It is a practical, readable guide and is suitable for those new to the Technique as well as those who have had Alexander Technique lessons.

About the Author
Richard Brennan ATI, MSTAT has studied the Alexander Technique since 1983.  He runs a busy practice in Galway, teaches numerous classes and gives, talks, lectures and workshops throughout Europe and is also the national contact for Alexander Technique International in Ireland, a world-wide organisation whose aim is to bring the Technique to a greater audience.  He has written a number of books on the Alexander Technique.

The Alexander Technique - An Introductory Guide to Natural Poise and Health
by Richard Brennan

Published 1991                        114 pages

This is a straightforward, easy-to-read introduction to the Alexander Technique and is good for those who know little or nothing about the Technique.  Each chapter explains the principles and concepts behind the technique clearly without jargon or anatomical terms.  There is also a section about how Alexander evolved his technique.  Each chapter includes easily accessible information panel boxes.  Illustrated with clear photographs and line drawings.

NOW OUT OF PRINT

About the Author
Richard Brennan ATI, MSTAT has studied the Alexander Technique since 1983.  He runs a busy practice in Galway, teaches numerous classes and gives, talks, lectures and workshops throughout Europe and is also the national contact for Alexander Technique International in Ireland, a world-wide organisation whose aim is to bring the Technique to a greater audience.  He has written a number of books on the Alexander Technique.

Authorised Summaries of F M Alexander's Four Books
by Ron Brown

Published 1992            148 pages

These summaries were made in the late 1940s by a student of the Technique, Ron Brown.  They were to be included in a book about the Technique that was never finished, but since they were read and approved by Alexander himself, they can be regarded as providing an accurate chapter-by-chapter summary of all his books.

Sometimes this condensed form omits stages in Alexander's arguments, and by themselves the conclusions can appear dogmatic.  However, most of the time the abbreviated, forthright approach clarifies many points, crystallises the reasoning behind the arguments and brings out the full force of Alexander's theories and practice.

Explaining the Alexander Technique
by Walter Carrington in conversation with Sean Carey

Published 1992                        193 pages

Walter Carrington's conversations with Sean Carey cover extensive ground, including reflections on teaching, the history of the Technique, the professional standing of Alexander teachers, as well as explaining and demystifying difficult passages of Alexander's books and teaching procedures. The book is not an interview but a series of conversations, an exchange of information much like a lesson.

Sean Carey steers the discussions with questions and succinct summaries, Walter Carrington providing a wealth of information on almost all aspects of teaching and learning. The book is concise without losing a stimulating inquisitiveness or the natural flow of a conversation which makes it very readable.  It is not for beginners, however. The book assumes the reader is well versed in the practice and theory of the Technique.

About the Author
Walter Carrington (1915 - 2005) was one of the world's foremost exponents of the Alexander Technique who inspired generations of teachers.  Carrington worked alongside F M Alexander himself until he died in 1955 and developed own school - now the Constructive Teaching Centre in London after his death.  Instead of adopting a pre-existing teaching approach Walter and his wife Dylis evolved a way of teaching and training in accord with the principles of the Alexander technique itself. Their methods have been taken up by training courses throughout the world.  Carrington was an inspirational teacher because he embodied the principles of the technique in his own life and his observations in printed form are essential reading for any serious student of the Alexander Technique.

A Time to Remember
by Walter Carrington

Published 1996                        112 pages

A personal diary of teaching the Alexander Technique in 1946 when Walter Carrington returned to Alexander's training school at Ashley Place after the war, this book records his experiences as a teaching assistant, both giving private lessons and working on Alexander's training course.

Carrington's preface explains the background and the setting for the diary which covers the period March to November 1946, with an additional entry from 1947.  It catches the atmosphere of the time as well as providing some interesting Alexander quotations.  The book includes a list of students on Alexander's courses 1931-1955, a copy of the prospectus, an introductory pamphlet to the Technique from 1951 and 30 pages of notes with additional information on events and people referred to in the diary.

About the Author
Walter Carrington (1915 - 2005) was one of the world's foremost exponents of the Alexander Technique who inspired generations of teachers.  Carrington worked alongside F M Alexander himself until he died in 1955 and developed own school - now the Constructive Teaching Centre in London after his death.  Instead of adopting a pre-existing teaching approach Walter and his wife Dylis evolved a way of teaching and training in accord with the principles of the Alexander technique itself. Their methods have been taken up by training courses throughout the world.  Carrington was an inspirational teacher because he embodied the principles of the technique in his own life and his observations in printed form are essential reading for any serious student of the Alexander Technique.

Thinking Aloud - Talks on Teaching the Alexander Technique
by Walter Carrington

Published 1994                        160 pages

Everyday Walter Carrington would give a short talk to his students, and it became the custom to record these talks.  The twenty-five short texts in this book have been selected and edited by Jerry Sontag from transcriptions of Walter Carrington’s talks on the Alexander Technique between 1966 and 1990. The talks are not arranged chronologically, but they have a thematic coherence and may be read consecutively, although one can also dip into the book, or select a topic of particular relevance to oneself.

The talks were given by Carrington to his students on his training course for the purpose of clarifying particular aspects of the practice and teaching of the Technique.  Some of the titles are: “The Importance of a Teacher’s Use,” “Lengthening in Stature,” “Teaching Directions to Beginners,” “Lengthening and Widening,” “Knees Going Forward and Away,” “Hands on the Back of the Chair,” “Directing the Neck and Head,” “Whispered Ahs,” “Teaching the First Lesson,” “Breathing,” “Generating the Energy to Go Up” and “The Demand of the Constant.”

Accessible, concentrated, distilled knowledge of 50 years’ teaching experience, these observations are essential reading for students of the Technique.

About the Author
Walter Carrington (1915 - 2005) was one of the world's foremost exponents of the Alexander Technique who inspired generations of teachers.  Carrington worked alongside F M Alexander himself until he died in 1955 and developed own school - now the Constructive Teaching Centre in London after his death.  Instead of adopting a pre-existing teaching approach Walter and his wife Dylis evolved a way of teaching and training in accord with the principles of the Alexander technique itself. Their methods have been taken up by training courses throughout the world.  Carrington was an inspirational teacher because he embodied the principles of the technique in his own life and his observations in printed form are essential reading for any serious student of the Alexander Technique.

The Act of Living - Talks on the Alexander Technique
by Walter Carrington

Published 1999                        188 pages

This second volume of Walter Carrington's talks contains 29 talks given to trainees on the many aspects of teaching and living the Technique.  This may regarded as the second volume of Thinking Aloud.  Some of the 29 talks are titled: Thinking to do; General functioning; The primary wish; Forward and up; Knees forward and away; The length and the width; Walking; Yin and yang; Establishing a total pattern; Responsibility; Gravitation; and Saying and meaning no.

Foreword by the 'postural physiologist' Tristan Roberts and an introduction by Glynn Macdonald, and biographies.

About the Author
Walter Carrington (1915 - 2005) was one of the world's foremost exponents of the Alexander Technique who inspired generations of teachers.  Carrington worked alongside F M Alexander himself until he died in 1955 and developed own school - now the Constructive Teaching Centre in London after his death.  Instead of adopting a pre-existing teaching approach Walter and his wife Dylis evolved a way of teaching and training in accord with the principles of the Alexander technique itself. Their methods have been taken up by training courses throughout the world.  Carrington was an inspirational teacher because he embodied the principles of the technique in his own life and his observations in printed form are essential reading for any serious student of the Alexander Technique.

The Foundations of Human Well-Being - Magnus and the Alexander Technique
by Walter Carrington

Published 1994                        64 pages

Two articles about physiology, the first (1941) is on the work of Alexander and Dr Coghill and the second article (c1950) describes the work of Professor Magnus and its connection to Alexander’s work.  The style of writing is very much of its time and the modern reader may find it difficult.

The first article is a comparative study of the work of Alexander and Dr Coghill on the physiology of behaviour.  Coghill makes a distinction between a 'total pattern' and a 'partial pattern' of an organism's behaviour.  Alexander's technique is seen as a conscious way of co-ordinating partial patterns and thereby avoiding internal behavioural conflict - a prerequisite for well-being.  The second article describes the work of Professor Magnus who investigated the factors controlling the changes of animal posture in relation to gravity and on the muscular tone which maintains posture.

Carrington summarises his findings and considers the possible relationship between Magnus 'central apparatus' and the primary control.

About the Author
Walter Carrington (1915 - 2005) was one of the world's foremost exponents of the Alexander Technique who inspired generations of teachers.  Carrington worked alongside F M Alexander himself until he died in 1955 and developed own school - now the Constructive Teaching Centre in London after his death.  Instead of adopting a pre-existing teaching approach Walter and his wife Dylis evolved a way of teaching and training in accord with the principles of the Alexander technique itself. Their methods have been taken up by training courses throughout the world.  Carrington was an inspirational teacher because he embodied the principles of the technique in his own life and his observations in printed form are essential reading for any serious student of the Alexander Technique.

Personally Speaking
by Walter Carrington in conversation with Sean Carey

Published 2001                        160 pages

First published in 1986, in these conversations with Seán Carey, Walter Carrington speaks candidly about developments in the teaching of the Technique. He provides the historical context of the Technique as it is taught today, covering basic procedures such as the whispered "ah", hands on the back of the chair, "monkey" and lying down work. Going back to origins of these procedures, Carrington describes how Alexander taught, both in lessons and on his training course, and a clear picture emerges not only of Alexander as a teacher but also of the man behind the Technique.

After Alexander's death in 1955 Walter Carrington continued the training course which Alexander had started. He explains how his approach to the training of teachers evolved through developments like saddle work, creeping on all fours and the Dart procedures.

A significant part of the book is devoted to practical teaching considerations. Here Walter Carrington's 55 years teaching experience is particularly revealing and he offers much guidance and advice, not least upon such an important concern as the use of hands in teaching.

The Appendix contains Walter Carrington's diary of his first lessons with F. M. Alexander in 1935 – here published for the first time.

About the Author
Walter Carrington (1915 - 2005) was one of the world's foremost exponents of the Alexander Technique who inspired generations of teachers.  Carrington worked alongside F M Alexander himself until he died in 1955 and developed own school - now the Constructive Teaching Centre in London after his death.  Instead of adopting a pre-existing teaching approach Walter and his wife Dylis evolved a way of teaching and training in accord with the principles of the Alexander technique itself. Their methods have been taken up by training courses throughout the world.  Carrington was an inspirational teacher because he embodied the principles of the technique in his own life and his observations in printed form are essential reading for any serious student of the Alexander Technique.

How to Learn the Alexander Technique : A Manual for Students
by Barbara and William Conable

Published 1995                        154 pages

A primer for students of the Alexander Technique, this book provides the first authoritative account of the Conable’s concept of Body Mapping - the study of how our ideas about our bodies affect our experience and movement.  This concept is integrated with a lucid explanation of the Alexander Technique that clarifies and simplifies the task of teaching and learning the Technique.

It is perhaps suitable only for people who are having lessons as the act of inhibiting and directing is given a scant description.  A chapter for teachers explains how to help pupils with ‘body mapping.’  It also contains sections for practitioners of various disciplines, e.g. musicians, actors, singers, dancers.

About the Author
Barbara Conable is an Alexander teacher of 23 years experience and a teaching member of the North American Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique and Alexander Technique International.  She has taught at the Ohio State University and the Cincinnati Conservatory and is Founder and President of Andover Educators.  She is an active poet and the author and editor of several books about the Alexander Technique.  William Conable is Emeritus Professor of Music at Ohio State University, a cellist, conductor and Alexander Teacher of renown.

What Every Musician Needs to Know about the Body
by Barbara and Ben Conable

Published 1998

Covering subjects like training musician's movements, mapping the core of the body, breathing, leg movement in playing, reflexes and much more, this book is filled with information that is important the success of every musician.  It’s a book about Body Mapping and the kinesthetic sense and how they can be developed in ways that help musicians play well.  It is full of information about the Alexander Technique, but it is very useful for people who don’t have access to an Alexander teacher as well.  It was written originally as a complement to the Conable's training course of the same name.  The book is designed and illustrated by Ben Conable, the son of Barbara and William Conable, the originators of the Body Mapping concept.

About the Author
Barbara Conable is an Alexander teacher of 23 years experience and a teaching member of the North American Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique and Alexander Technique International.  She has taught at the Ohio State University and the Cincinnati Conservatory and is Founder and President of Andover Educators.  She is an active poet and the author and editor of several books about the Alexander Technique.  Ben Conable is her son.

Ingredients for a Happy Life – Tea, Cake and Meditation
by Deborah Coote

Published 2010                       

A practical, enjoyable and inspirational book covering all aspects of meditation, from why and how to get started, to setting up your own group. This comprehensive book also includes beautiful, creative and useful meditations, inspirational quotations as well as recipes for scrummy 'easy to bake' cakes to share with your meditation group.  There is a CD that compliments the book, entitled ‘Meditations for a Happy Life.

About the Author
Deborah Coote is a Teacher of the Alexander Technique as well as teaching classes, courses and workshops in meditation.   More information at www.deborahcoote.com

Beat Back Pain with the Alexander Technique
by Richard Craze

Published 2010                        192 pages

This book aims to show you how the Alexander technique will beat your back pain, relieve your stress and improve your overall wellbeing.  In the Teach Yourself range, it is a simple, no-nonsense, step-by-step guide to how to use the Technique.  There are one, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started.  Lots of advice for help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience.  There are tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress.   There are also extra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a better understanding of the Alexander Technique.  Quick refreshers help you remember the key facts and innovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it. 

Indirect Procedures
by Pedro de Alcantara

Published 1997                        313 pages

Written by a cellist and Alexander teacher, this book is exclusively devoted to musicians' issues.   At the same time, it is a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practice of the Alexander Technique with some photo illustrations.

The book has been very well received, and its English version is in its sixth printing.  Introducing the musician to the principles and procedures evolved by F M Alexander, the book contains practical advice related to all areas of musical activity, from technique, sound production, and interpretation, to daily practice, rehearsal routines, and mitigating stage fright and health problems.

The book is in three parts, covering the basic principles of the Alexander Technique, its practical procedures, and its applications to music-making.  The Introduction is a good starting point both for readers who are already familiar with the Technique and for those who are coming to it for the first time.

Reviews
"Indirect Procedures provides musicians with their first authoritative overview of the Alexander Technique that is specifically directed to the profession. Alcantara has made a significant and valuable contribution."
Piano & Keyboard Magazine

"This is one of the most thorough discussions of the Alexander technique to appear in recent years, and the musical component renders it unique. Recommended to all libraries with music collections."
Choice Magazine

"...teeming with resources and ideas,... musicians will appreciate the specificity of its technical tete-a-tete."
Chamber Music Magazine

About the Author
Born in Brazil, Pedro de Alcantara is the President of the French Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique.  He trained as an Alexander teacher in London, with Patrick Macdonald (who himself was trained by Alexander in the 1930s) and Shoshana Kaminitz.  He also taught for three years at the Alexander Institute (directed by Dr. Wilfred Barlow, who was also trained by Alexander) before moving to Paris in 1990, where he still lives.

The Alexander Technique, A Skill for Life
by Pedro de Alcantara

Published 1999                        128 pages

Pedro de Alcantara, President of the French Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique, explains the principles of the Technique and illustrates its applications to medicine, personal relationships, sports and exercise, and the performing arts, and including a short section on that most important of psychophysical activities, kissing!

This small, well written book is the author’s second on the Alexander Technique.

Review
"This book is a delightful read and will no doubt encourage many who read it to come along for lessons in order to regain self-control, a heightened awareness, health and well-being and an ongoing emotional maturity which are just some of the benefits that make the Alexander Technique a skill for life...  written with sparkling intelligence, a keen wit and is the product of one who practises what he preaches.  It is a book that has universal appeal... "
Diana Devitt-Dawson, Australian AT Institute

About the Author
Born in Brazil, Pedro de Alcantara is the President of the French Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique.  He trained as an Alexander teacher in London, with Patrick Macdonald (who himself was trained by Alexander in the 1930s) and Shoshana Kaminitz.  He also taught for three years at the Alexander Institute (directed by Dr. Wilfred Barlow, who was also trained by Alexander) before moving to Paris in 1990, where he still lives.

Integrated Practice: Coordination, Rhythm and Sound
by Pedro de Alcantara

Published 2011                        336 pages

Integrated Practice presents innovative concepts and tools for the study, practice, and performance of music.  It.aims to give you the tools to combine total-body awareness with a deep and practical understanding of the rhythmic structure of the musical language, so that you can "speak music" fluently, healthfully, and effectively. The key to mastering the language of music is rhythm. Integrated Practice contains an in-depth study of rhythm in music and in coordination, with dozens of exercises to help you infuse your gestures and musical phrases with rhythmic energy. Integrated Practice covers the harmonic series in detail and includes novel approaches to improvisation, with exercises that you can apply to daily practice, rehearsing, and performing across the entire repertory. The book is accompanied by a dedicated website with dozens of video and audio clips that demonstrate the book's concepts and exercises.

About the Author
Born in Brazil, Pedro de Alcantara is the President of the French Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique.  He trained as an Alexander teacher in London, with Patrick Macdonald (who himself was trained by Alexander in the 1930s) and Shoshana Kaminitz.  He also taught for three years at the Alexander Institute (directed by Dr. Wilfred Barlow, who was also trained by Alexander) before moving to Paris in 1990, where he still lives.

Just Beneath the Surface - The Process of Counseling (sic) and Psychotherapy

by Dr Sandra Delroy in collaboration with Cheryl Gordon

Published 1996                       

Just Beneath the Surface is an anecdotal approach to exploring the processes of counselling and psychotherapy.

It contains detailed descriptions of the everyday interactions and challenges faced by individuals engaged in exchanges that they hope will be psychotherapeutic. The complexities and aims of these endeavours are highlighted and considered

The ways health and mental health professionals can utilize counselling skills in their work are described. Just Beneath the Surface is particularly relevant for those with experience of counselling or psychotherapy either as client or therapist.

About the Author
Dr Sandra Delroy gained her doctorate in clinical psychology in 1984 at The Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago.  She is a chartered clinical and counselling psychologist currently in private practice in London, UK.   She has worked as a counsellor and psychotherapist for over 25 years and offer counselling and psychotherapy to individuals and groups in and around London. 

Skill and Poise
by Professor Raymond Dart

Published 1996                        192 pages

Raymond Dart first identified and drew attention to the double spiral arrangement of the human musculature. He is widely recognized as one of the pre-eminent anatomists, anthropologists and palaeontologists of the 20th Century, but also had a great interest in developmental physiology and human developmental movement as demonstrated by infants and children.  This book contains 7 articles including all his articles which directly relate to the Alexander Technique and including work by Alexander Murray on 'The Dart Procedures' - a series of movements that explores the developmental sequence of human movement from infant to adult, based on the work of Professor Dart.

These articles were written in the 1940s, 50s and 60s, this collection published 1996.

About the Author
Professor Raymond Dart, Australian by birth, emigrated to London after graduating from medical school in 1917.  He was appointed Professor of Anatomy in Johannesburg in 1923, retaining the post until his retirement in 1958.  Dart enjoyed a varied career, becoming famous for anthropological investigations, as well as for his work in anatomy. Dart and his family had Alexander Technique lessons with Alexander's assistant, Irene Tasker, in 1943.  Dart had a single lesson with Alexander in 1949, but maintained that Alexander influenced him for the rest of his life. 

Understanding the Alexander Technique
by Joan Diamond

Published 2003                        64 pages

This simple little book can make an informative starting point for anyone who doesn't know anything about the Technique and as such is often given as a gift.  Written by an Alexander teacher, it is much better than the blurb on the back suggests, with its talk of "this fascinating therapy" and of "how the therapy works".   Illustrated with good photos.

The blurb on the back says...

At last, here is a book which gives a clear, concise and accurate insight into this fascinating therapy. You can find out about : How the Alexander Technique was invented; How the therapy works; What the Alexander Technique can do for you. Illustrated with top-quality colour photographs, this is an essential guide for all who want to improve their physical health and mental well-being.

About the Author

Joan Diamond is a senior teacher of the Alexander Technique at the Cumbria Alexander Training School in the Lake District, UK.

Thorsons Introduction to the Alexander Technique
by Jonathan Drake

Published 1993            96 pages

This book covers the key principles of the Technique and how it can help and, more importantly, not help. There is a chapter on Alexander’s life and one on how the Technique works. It describes some of the research corroborating Alexander’s discoveries. A chapter is devoted to comparing the Technique with some of the healing arts: manipulative methods, relaxation techniques, Yoga, T’ai Chi, Feldenkrais and psychotherapy. The chapter “Taking charge of your life” looks at the Technique in a larger context and suggests an Aristotelian philosophy of seeking happiness as “an ethical state in a whole life well-lived.”

OUT OF PRINT

About the Author
Jonathan Drake is a medical graduate who qualified as an Alexander Technique Teacher in 1982 (MSTAT) and has been in Norwich, England, since 1988, giving private lessons and a wide range of introductory & specialist workshops for the general public and for public & private organisations.  He has written two books and takes a special interest in applying AT to improving fitness.

Posture Poise and Positive Health
by Dr Grahame Fagg

Published 2006                        204 pages

Dr Grahame Fagg practised as a medical doctor from 1938 to 1980 and one of his main desires in life was to help people to improve their posture.  He was convinced that many of us suffer emotional stresses during childhood which result in fixed body postures that remain throughout adult life.  These frequently bring aches, pains and other forms of debilitating illnesses. The book gives advice to help us restore the original posture we once enjoyed in early childhood.  It also opens the way to a new, better and healthier life by relieving the strains and stresses we may well have inflicted upon ourselves during adulthood, preventing us from living full, relaxed and happier lives.

Dr Fagg worked with Charles Neil (a teacher who taught an offshoot of the Alexander Technique) in the 1950s.  In this book, Fagg introduces the most basic concepts of the Technique without using the usual vocabulary of the Technique, or acknowledging the existence of any other literature or teaching society.  So perhaps should be treated with some caution in relation to the Technique.  A large part of the book is dedicated to the interesting and curious descriptions of his own experiments and discoveries about movement and use.

About the Author
Grahame Fagg (1916-2002) qualified as a doctor in 1938 at St Bartholomews Hospital in London. In 1950 he was appointed Consultant Paediatrician for Hertfordshire and North Bedfordshire, retiring in 1980.  He devoted his life to working with sick children but latterly became fascinated in studying the relationship between posture and disease.  The result is this book.

The Philosopher's Stone - Diaries of Lessons with F. Matthias Alexander
by Jean M O Fischer (Ed)

Published 1998                        110 pages

This book contains five rare descriptions of how Alexander taught, richly illustrated.  It helps us understand the development of Alexander's work over time, from c1918 to c1953.  This title gives us the written accounts of a variety of individuals coming to the work at different stages in its development.  These students differed in their backgrounds, purposes, insights, and ages and so give a variety of perspectives.

The chronological order in which the diarists came to the Technique (which is not the order in which their accounts come in the book) is J.H. Robinson (~1919), A.M. Ludovici (1925), George Trevelyan (1928-1937), Frank and Grace Hand (1942), Eva Webb (1947), Mrs. Buchanan (1952). Most seem to have had only one series of lessons over a relatively short period of time but Ludovici says his lessons in 'deportment' went on for four years and Trevelyan, who trained to become an Alexander teacher, had lessons for many years.

Some of these accounts were written contemporaneously with lessons and some were written months or years later.  These individuals range from what can be described as 'intellectual' class of their time to 'busy housewife', Eva Webb who describes herself as a buy housewife, not.  Most, in their accounts of their lessons and the resulting changes in themselves, give a sense of dramatically "physical" experiences with renewed enjoyment of themselves and living.

The Lost Sixth Sense - A Medical Scientist Looks at the Alexander Technique
by David Garlick

Published 1990            A5 booklet       54 pages

The lost sixth sense to which the title of refers is “proprioception” – the internal sense or awareness that the body has of itself.  It tells where the bits of the body are in relation to each other. It also tells when we are tired or tense, when we are carrying a heavy or a light load, whether we are or moving etc.

This book is a good introduction to some of the physiology and neurophysiology underlying the Alexander Technique. It has helpful guidance about the workings of the flexor and extensor muscles, the role of muscle spindles, tendon organs, joint receptors and other such details of the workings of the neuromuscular system and how the muscles work, presenting the basic facts in a succinct and accessible way.  Garlick also provides a useful neurophysiological perspective on important Technique concepts like inhibition, direction and primary control.

Garlick’s way of looking at these isuues can be useful when trying to explain AT concepts to people with a scientific or medical background.  Some awkward phrasing in places.

About the Author
David Garlick was an Australian sport-medicine scientist and AT teacher.  He undertook a comprehensive series of studies of the underlying physiological mechanisms of the Technique at the University of New South Wales in Australia.  He died in 2002.

What Every Dancer Needs to Know About the Body
by Robin Gilmore

Published 2005                        116 pages

This is a workbook for dancers and other movers about Body Mapping and the Alexander Technique to help improve the quality of their movement.  It has clear, concise text, numerous illustrations and guided movement explorations.  It claims to decode common dance habits and develop a conscious approach to moving with ease and pleasure.  Aimed at dancers, dance teachers and anyone with an interest in the Alexander Technique and movement.

About the Author
Robin Gilmore holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Dance from Temple University. She is a teaching member and sponsoring member of Alexander Technique International.  As a choreographer, performer and movement educator, her work has been presented internationally for over twenty five years. She directs an Alexander Technique teacher training program in North Carolina and resides in Annapolis, Maryland, USA.

Body Learning - An Introduction to the Alexander Technique
by Michael J Gelb

Published 2004                        180 pages

This has become a popular and classic work on the Technique, first published in 1981.  It aims to answer in simple terms the question ‘What is the Alexander Technique and how can it help me?’   The book includes a reader-friendly introduction to the seven ‘operational ideas’ of the Alexander Technique and emphasises the usefulness of Alexander’s approach in easing the path of lifelong learning.  The book is aimed at newcomers to the Technique.

About the Author
Michael J Gelb has been a teacher of the Alexander Technique since 1978.  He is based in New York and works with many large organisations.  He has written several books.

Taking Time - Six Interviews with First Generation Teachers of the Alexander Technique on Alexander Teacher Training
by Chariclia Gounaris, Crissman Taylor and Carmen Tarnowski (Ed)

Published 2001                        148 pages

This is a collection of interviews with Peggy Williams, Walter and Dilys Carrington, Marjory Barlow, Elisabeth Walker, Anthony Spawforth, and Erika Whittaker undertaken between 1996 and 1998.  Of interest to anyone involved in training AT teachers.

Your Guide to the Alexander Technique
by John Gray

Published 1994                        176 pages

In this book John Gray seeks to demystify, to provide a clear explanation of the basic principles of the Technique and to describe the practical procedures used.  Gray was himself trained by Marjory and Dr Wilfred Barlow and is concerned to pass on the “essential pure truths” of the work as learnt by him from his teachers.

This book takes stock rather than seeking to break new ground. Gray sets out in this book to answer the questions often raised about the Alexander Technique “What is it all about? What happens in the lessons? How do I learn the technique?”.

Not an ordinary introduction book but rather a work-book for those who are having lessons in the Technique. It emphasises the essential, classic procedures in learning the Technique. With its practical approach it contains many chapters on “Working on oneself”: lying down, sitting and standing, working against a wall, monkey, hands on the back of a chair, whispered ‘Ah’ etc. The text is easy to read, written as a teacher would instruct a pupil in a lesson, and contains advice for teachers too. It is illustrated throughout with many photographs and diagrams of poor and good use.

It is a practical approach which may provide a useful source of information for the motivated AT pupil. 

Directed Activities
by Gerard Grennell

Published 2002                        148 pages

This is described as a Diary of Practical Procedures for Students and Teachers of the F M Alexander Technique as taught at the Constructive Teaching Centre 1989-1992.  The directed activities - on each page of the diary, a simple activity, e.g. lifting an arm, is described with drawings and a brief text - are those used in the half hour each day on the Walter Carrington’s course called "games".

This book has had very different reactions from AT teachers, but if it is not read as an essay about activities or a manual of how to do them, but instead something to be dipped in and out of, the reader will get some good ideas about variations on the theme of activities with which to practise key themes of the Alexander Technique, like inhibition and direction. 

Eyebody -The Art of Integrating Eye, Brain and Body
by Peter Grunwald

Published 2008                        160 pages

This book, written by an Australian teacher of the Alexander Technique describes his method to improve the function of eyes, brain and body and teaches how to let go of glasses forever.

Peter Grunwald developed the 'Eyebody Method' having discovered that certain areas of the brain, eyes and the rest of the visual system correspond to specific areas in the human body.  In this method, he applies principles developed by F. M. Alexander to the Grunwald EyeBody Patterns® in conjunction with the Bates Method of Natural Vision Improvement.  Grunwald thus has developed techniques to release patterns which underly myopia, presbyopia, astigmatism and other visual dysfunctions, together with postural dysfunctions causing back, neck and shoulder pain, headaches and breathing disorders.

The book includes over 40 illustrations and a detailed full-colour chart of brain to eye to body connections.

About the Author
Peter Grunwald was myopic and astigmatic from early childhood, with his first pair of glasses at the age of 3. He began to stutter and both his posture and self-esteem slumped.  His training as an AT teacher vastly improved his stuttering and gave him a sense of postural and mental poise and increased self-esteem that went on to inform his Eyebody Method.  Peter now consults privately, writes, and leads seminars in seven countries around the world. He lives with his family in New Zealand.

Voice and the Alexander Technique
by Jane Ruby Heirich

Published 2005                        171 pages                    Book + CD

This book, with accompanying CD, is designed for both teachers and students of the speaking and singing voice.   Jane Heirich addresses some common problem areas of the voice-teaching world - breath management, voice projection, resonance building, breaks in the vocal range, and the relevance of overall poise to vocal output. The step-by-step approach through which she takes the reader allows new skills to develop for both beginning and experienced students/performers.

The book has been very well received by singers and performers.  It has a user-friendly style, with many anatomical sketches, photos of human figures in motion and diagrams.  Includes several stories of students learning the AT and achieving vocal improvement, many 'To Dos' (vocal explorations) to conduct alone or with a partner.  Musical exercises are written in notation with ample explanation.  There is a helpful companion CD with piano accompaniment.

About the Author
As well as having 30 years choral directing experience, Jane Heirich trains teachers of the Alexander Technique.  She has taught workshops, classes, and lessons around the world since 1991, focusing on the intersection of voice and the Alexander Technique.

Voice and the Alexander Technique
by Jane Ruby Heirich

Published 2011                        150 pages                    Paperback Book + CD

This book, with accompanying CD, is designed for both teachers and students of the speaking and singing voice.   Jane Heirich addresses some common problem areas of the voice-teaching world - breath management, voice projection, resonance building, breaks in the vocal range, and the relevance of overall poise to vocal output. The step-by-step approach through which she takes the reader allows new skills to develop for both beginning and experienced students/performers.

This book is the culmination of decades of work integrating two approaches that will have a profound impact on your voice; the centuries-old Italian bel canto singing tradition and the FM Alexander Technique.

Note: The hardback edition (ISBN 09644352-5-x) published in 2005 is no longer available. This second edition in paperback was published in September 2011.

About the Author
As well as having 30 years choral directing experience, Jane Heirich trains teachers of the Alexander Technique.  She has taught workshops, classes, and lessons around the world since 1991, focusing on the intersection of voice and the Alexander Technique.

A Way of Working
by Mary Holland

Re-published 2011 (originally published 1978) 18 pages

A Way of Working is an 18 page 4x5 pamphlet which was originally published in 1978. Written by Alexander Technique training course director and teacher Mary Holland, it is a wonderful introduction to the Alexander Technique. It is a great short piece for new students and old.  For teachers, it can also be used as a valuable promotional tool for prospective students.

Freedom to Change - The Development and Science of the Alexander Technique
by Frank Pierce Jones

Published 2003                        240 pages

This excellent book gives a very good clear explanation of the Technique, set in the context of valuable material about Alexander's life and work, and also contains an interesting exposition of Frank Pierce Jones' own research to establish some scientific credentials for the Technique.

The blurb on the back says...
At one time or another, almost everyone suffers from back-ache and other ailments caused by tension and poor co-ordination. Because most of our complaints arise from our own unconscious bad habits, conventional treatment rarely brings more than temporary relief.

Alexander discovered a practical way of coordinating mind and body in all activities of living. By relying on conscious choice instead of habit we can change the way we use our muscular system, thereby avoiding tensions, strain and fatigue. Practising the Alexander Technique brings about lighter and freer movements as well as an expanded field of attention.

In Freedom to Change, Frank Pierce Jones presents the essential features of the Alexander Technique. Drawing on his long association with Alexander, Jones also relates Alexander's extraordinary life story and the development of the Technique.

Besides relating his own teaching experiences Jones summarizes his 25 years of research into the Technique. By measuring the differences between "habitual" and "teacher-guided" movement patterns, and by studying the actual mechanics of the body in achieving awareness, Jones provides scientific support for Alexander's ground-breaking discoveries.

About the Author
Frank Pierce Jones trained with F M and A R Alexander between 1941 and 1944, qualifying as a teacher of the Technique in 1945.   Jones subsequently conducted scientific studies into the effects of the Technique at the Tufts Institute for Psychological Research.

Collected Writings on the Alexander Technique
by Frank Pierce Jones

Published 1999                        376 pages

This is the definitive compilation of Frank Pierce Jones scientific and humanistic writings on the Alexander Technique.  This compilation includes:

    * 40 papers

    * 92 photos and illustrations

    * Explanatory notes introducing each paper

    * Introduction on the life and work of Frank Pierce Jones

    * Foreword by Professor Alexander Murray

Frank Pierce Jones conducted research on the Alexander Technique at the Institute for Experimental Psychology at Tufts University from 1949 until his death in 1975.  In 1949, with the encouragement of the educational philosopher John Dewey, Jones embarked on a 26-year scientific-investigation into the Alexander Technique. Using various methods such as multiple image photography, electromyography, and X-ray photography, Jones sought to demonstrate the scientific validity of Alexander’s discovery of a "primary control." The results of his investigations, collected for the first time in this volume, comprise the most comprehensive scientific body of research on the Alexander Technique to date, as well as Jones’s classic introductory papers on the Technique.

About the Author
Frank Pierce Jones trained with F M and A R Alexander between 1941 and 1944, qualifying as a teacher of the Technique in 1945.   Jones subsequently conducted scientific studies into the effects of the Technique at the Tufts Institute for Psychological Research.

Free Yourself from Back Pain : A Guide to the Alexander Technique
by Noël Kingsley

Published February 2011         160 pages

This is a practical and straightforward guide to the Alexander Technique. It is designed to provide helpful advice, tips and further information to accompany a back pain sufferer’s actual lessons. Noël Kingsley gives clear explanations of the principles of the technique and how to apply them to daily life. The book teaches us to develop an awareness of poise, making us conscious of how we are moving to avoid strain and back pain. Chapters include the origins of Alexander Technique, types of back pain, the importance of good posture, becoming aware of our movements, ‘thinking’ not ‘doing’, bending and carrying, and releasing tension. Colour photography and illustrations accompany the informative and lively text to clearly convey new and healthy ways of moving. If you’ve ever suffered from back pain or muscular tension, this is the book for you.

About the Author
Noël Kingsley, MSTAT, trained as a professional teacher in the Alexander Technique under Walter Carrington, a protégé of FM Alexander himself. After qualifying he continued to study with Walter Carrington whilst building his own practice in Central London, which he has run full-time since 1993. He is the author of Perfect Poise, Perfect Life (Hodder & Stoughton 2005).

Mind and Muscle
by Elizabeth Langford

Published 1999                        217 pages

This book explores the connections between our thinking processes and how our muscles work.  Mind & Muscle is about the intimate links between thoughts, emotions and muscle behaviour, and shows us, in detail, just what principles really underpin good functioning.  It explains concepts in an accessible way.  It includes experiments to carry out for yourself, designed to reveal how intimately mind and muscle are linked.

The book is described as invaluable for anyone whose working tool is their body - athlete, musician, dancer, dentist or carpenter - and who is looking for improved performance or simply for less strain; for those who are convalescent or battling with a handicap; for the many people suffering from back pain; and anybody keen to rediscover a sense of well-being.

About the Author
Elizabeth Langford is an experienced musician who found her way to understanding aspects of her playing through the Alexander Technique. The influence of three great teachers to whom she owes so much – Walter Carrington, Peggy Williams and Max Rostal – gave her inspiration to “commit to paper” her own experiences and thoughts and to offer practical advice on applying the Technique.

Mind and Muscle and Music
by Elizabeth Langford

Published 2008                        227 pages

This book is designed specifically to be read in conjunction with Langford's earlier work, Mind and Muscle.  Many references first guide the reader to explanations to be found in the earlier book – explanations that are then expanded here from a musician’s point of view.  This is a book for musicians, whether professional or amateur, for music teachers, for music students at all levels, and for Alexander teachers who work with musicians.  Administrators, too – whether of orchestras or of music schools – may appreciate a closer look into the lives of the musicians with whom their work is linked.

The type is a comfortable size and although the titles are self-explanatory, there are no diagrams or pictures – these are all in the first book.  It is very readable from the musician’s point of view.

About the Author
Elizabeth Langford is an experienced musician who found her way to understanding aspects of her playing through the Alexander Technique. The influence of three great teachers to whom she owes so much – Walter Carrington, Peggy Williams and Max Rostal – gave her inspiration to “commit to paper” her own experiences and thoughts and to offer practical advice on applying the Technique.

Only Connect - Reflections on Teaching the Alexander Technique
by Elizabeth Langford

Published 2004                        195 pages

This is a collection of papers, letters and occasional pieces intended for the Alexander trainee, rather than the general public.  In the foreword by Walter Carrington, he describes it as "a valuable and thought-provoking contribution to the process of continuing education."

There are important words of wisdom, for instance on 'verbal communication' where Langford warns teaches to say what they mean and mean what they say.  But there are also more light-hearted pieces.  Langford has a down to earth and refreshing way of expressing the principles without watering them down.

About the Author
Elizabeth Langford is an experienced musician who found her way to understanding aspects of her playing through the Alexander Technique. The influence of three great teachers to whom she owes so much – Walter Carrington, Peggy Williams and Max Rostal – gave her inspiration to “commit to paper” her own experiences and thoughts and to offer practical advice on applying the Technique.

Remembering Walter Carrington
by Elizabeth Langford (Ed)

Published 2006                        215 pages

This compilation of over 100 contributions from pupils of Walter Carrington is more than an affectionate tribute to a great man.  Informative, entertaining, and often moving,  it preserves for future generations an impression of the man and his teaching – a blend of skill, erudition, humour, courage, and profound kindliness.  Walter Hadrian Marshall Carrington (1915-2005) was chosen by F M Alexander to assist him in the training of teachers – and he faithfully carried on that work for fifty years after Alexander's death, in addition to giving innumerable private lessons.  He was a remarkable teacher whose work continues to influence thousands of lives.

The heart of the book consists of pupils' memories, to which are added a list of Walter's published works, the text of three of his last lectures, hitherto unpublished information about his war service, an extract from a personal letter, and the tributes at the Memorial Service. This is a book for the personal library of anyone with a serious interest in the Alexander Technique - Teachers, trainees, and private pupils.

About the Author
Elizabeth Langford is an experienced musician who found her way to understanding aspects of her playing through the Alexander Technique. The influence of three great teachers to whom she owes so much – Walter Carrington, Peggy Williams and Max Rostal – gave her inspiration to “commit to paper” her own experiences and thoughts and to offer practical advice on applying the Technique.

How Are We Living Our Lives?
by Grethe Laub

Published 2006                        151 pages

Subtitled 'viewpoints on the Alexander Technique in relation to living and child education', this is a series of talks by – and an interview with – Grethe Laub that took place from 1982-1988.  Grethe had a long teaching career: twenty-seven years as a nursery school teacher, followed by thirty years as a teacher of the Alexander Technique. She had special knowledge of how to use the Technique in teaching children to be creative, well balanced and fully alive.

Grethe believed that we have to think in a new way and make much more effort in bringing up our children.  If we are to reverse the tendency towards limitation and suffering, it is essential that we bring up our children to be conscious individuals with the possibility to act on the basis of conscious choices – and not merely on the basis of habitual patterns.

This book brings together her reflections and observations. Chariclia Gounaris has compiled and edited these talks and letters in a sensitive and thoughtful manner. This book is a great tribute to Grethe’s life-work, both with children and with the Alexander Technique. 

The Alexander Technique
by Judith Leibowitz and Bill Connington

Published 1999                        177 pages

Walter Carrington himself said: "This is a book that can be highly recommended to everyone who wants to know what our work is all about.   It is addressed primarily to the general reader but it can be studied with profit by all Alexander teachers and students."   Many teachers still recommend this classic to their students as an adjunct to regular lessons.

This book is subtitled, ‘The World-Famous Method for Enhancing Posture, Stamina, Health, and Well-Being, and for Relieving Pain and Tension’.  It is in two parts: The first gives Judith Leibowitz’s own story, followed by Bill Connington’s story, thereby establishing their credentials.  It goes on to recount the experiences of people who have been helped by the Technique, under the caption of “Using the Alexander Technique to Change Your Life”.  Then it explains some of the pracdcal problems under headings such as, “How Tension Responses Develop”, “Mental Attitude”, “Inhibition, Mental Directions and Sensory Awareness”. After that it deals with some “Anatomy and the Alexander Technique”, and explains about the “Mind-Body Connection” and “Self-Image and Psychological Factors”. Finally it explains “What Happens in Alexander Lessons”.

The Second Part describes what have come to be known as “The Leibowitz Procedures”. These are the outcome of Judith’s long experience in teaching the Technique to actors and dancers in the Drama Division of the Juilliard School where she has been member of the faculty for many years.  As she says: “The Leibowitz Procedures and the Alexander Technique are not the same thing. The procedures are a series of movements that are designed to help you observe yourself objectively in movement and at rest and to help you learn how the body moves when it is used well.

Foreword by the actor Kevin Kline.

About the Author
Judith Leibowitz was one of America’s most important and influential Alexander teachers and was instrumental in founding the American Center for the Alexander Technique (ACAT) in Manhattan in 1964, was Training Program Director until 1981 and continued on the faculty until her death in 1991.  She pioneered the tradition of teaching the Technique as part of the curriculum of conservatories and performance divisions of universities across the United States with her work at Juiilard from 1968.

Dare To Be Wrong - The Teachings of Judith Leibowitz
by Judith Leibowitz, edited by Miranda Kathryn

Published 2007                        145 pages

Judith Leibowitz was one of America’s most important and influential Alexander teachers and this book is a series of articles taken from her talks and other recordings of her teaching.  They capture her ability to make the principles of the Technique accessible to new and experienced students alike.

Leibowitz was instrumental in founding the American Center for the Alexander Technique (ACAT) in Manhattan in 1964, was Training Program Director until 1981 and continued on the faculty until her death in 1991 and pioneered the tradition of teaching the Technique as part of the curriculum of conservatories and performance divisions of universities across the United States with her work at Juilliard from 1968.

In 1991 she co-authored The Alexander Technique: The World Famous Method for Enhancing Posture, Stamina, Health and Well-being, and For Relieving Tension and Pain with Bill Connington to introduce the Alexander Technique to the general public.  She wanted to write another book for people who knew and understood the Technique to explore the subtleties of deep learning. Although she never had a chance to write that book, she left behind a rich collection of tapes recording her work as an individual and group teacher at Juilliard as well as Training Program Director of ACAT.

The Alexander Technique As I See It
by Patrick Macdonald

Published 1989                        124 pages

This is a collection of hitherto published and unpublished material written over a period of many years, from one of the pre-eminent first generation AT teachers.  Patrick Macdonald was trained by F M Alexander himself between 1932-1935 and wrote most of what became this book in the 1950s.  It is not an introduction to the Technique - it will be primarily of interest to teachers, students and pupils with experience.

The first section is a collection of ‘Notebook Jottings’ which mostly come directly from teaching situations, and cover a whole range of difficulties experienced by pupils.  Other chapters cover  “Alexander’s Discovery’; ‘Learning the Technique’ which includes clear explanations of what is meant by the directions; ‘Why we learn the Technique’, which has some very illuminating passages on how the Technique works and a useful selection of case histories. The chapter on “Teaching the Technique’ again gives insights into the nature of the forces at work, and the role of the teacher, including very practical teaching notes on how to use the hands.

Mr Macdonald’s 1963 Annual Memorial Lecture on ‘Giving Directions, Doing and Non-Doing’ is reproduced in a revised form, and there is a selection of ‘appreciations’ written by some of Alexander’s better known pupils.  The style of writing is concise and without embellishment, though not without humour.  The essential value of the book is that it gives the reader some insight into Macdonald’s understanding of the forces at work in the Alexander Technique, and in his own language.

About the Author
Patrick MacDonald was an inspirational first generation Alexander teacher who was trained by F M Alexander himself between 1932-1935.  Macdonald was nicknamed ‘The Mechanic’ because of the practical organisational knowledge he could convey with the quality of his hands.

The Secrets of the Alexander Technique
by Robert Macdonald and Caro Ness

Published 2001                        224 pages

This is one in the  'Secrets of ...' series which are intended to "offer a unique juxtaposition of theory and practice, providing clear, full explanations which demystify each subject and show you the best way to apply it."   It is small sized and richly illustrated, intended for the beginner.  The book is divided into 3 sections.  The first deals with such topics as 'Conscious Inhibition' and 'Directed Thought'.  The second part covers the basics of human structure and function.  The third part cvoers a variety of acitivities, such as reading, writing, typing, lying down, crawling, walking, riding etc.

NB small print.

About the Authors
Robert Macdonald has given workshops in the Alexander Technique, Voice, and Performance in theaters and corporations worldwide.  He has written one other book, The Use of the Voice.

Caro Ness has worked successfully as an author's agent, rights director, commissioning editor, and author.

The Alexander Technique Birth Book
by Ilana Machover with Angela and Jonathan Drake

Published 2006                        204 pages

This is subtitled ‘A Guide to Better Pregnancy, Natural Birth and Parenthood’ and aims to show women how to prepare for pregnancy and childbirth using the Alexander Technique.  It has a foreword by Sinead Cusack and Jeremy Irons.  The book is practical with lots of illustrations and aims to show how, by achieving overall improvement in balance and movement, the mother's experience can be transformed to the benefit of her own health and the baby's development.

Machova explains how many of the health problems traditionally associated with childbirth can be avoided with correct body use and shows how the Technique can be used to achieve a more natural birth, reducing the need for medical intervention. The authors also give useful advice on how to get back into shape after a birth, and how to nurture your child’s development.

About the Author
Ilana Machover is a childbirth educator, Alexander Technique teacher and mother.  She gives classes for pregnant women.  Jonathan Drake is an experienced Alexander Technique teacher and the author of two previous books on the Technique.

Just Play Naturally
by Vivien Mackie and Joe Armstrong

Published 2002                        164 pages

This is an account of Mackie's cello study with Pablo Casals in the 1950's and her discovery of the resonance between his teaching and the principles of the Alexander Technique, as told to Joe Armstrong.  Scottish-born Mackie spent three formative years in Prades studying with Casals.  Her reminiscences of those lessons form the core of the book.  Many years after that career-defining period, Mackie studied and then trained to become a teacher of the Alexander Technique.

Joe Armstrong, who also teaches the Alexander Technique, is a flautist who studied cello with Mackie as well.  It is obvious from the informal tone of the writing that the two are great friends with the utmost respect for each other and the book is set up as a series of loose conversations between them.  This is not to everyone's taste, however, and some feel the book would have been more effective had it omitted the many interjections of "Yes! Yes!" or "Ha Ha!" and been tightened up editorially.  However, the insights into Casals' teaching style and Mackie's deepening understanding of music as art are thought-provoking and fascinating.

At the close of the book, Mackie includes an excellent introductory article to the Alexander Technique.   Well worth reading for every cellist, or for any musician really. 

Alexander Technique - Original Writings of F M Alexander: Constructive Conscious Control - Abridged and Edited
by Daniel McGowan (Ed)

Published 1997                        188 pages

In this book Alexander's Conscious Control of the Individual has been abridged by about 25-30%.  In general sentences have been shortened rather than deleted.  Part 1 (Man's Evolutionary Development) has been abridged more than the other parts.  'Orders' has been substituted for 'directions' and 'means whereby' for 'means.  Other editing reflects modern sensibilities, eg 'savage' being substituted for 'primitive humanity'.  Overall a fair editing and abridgement.

About the Author
Daniel McGowan is an AT teacher with many years experience and a Head of Training at the Centre for Constructive Awareness and Related Education (CCARE).

Constructive Awareness - Alexander Technique and the Spiritual Quest
by Daniel McGowan (Ed)

Published 1997                        111 pages

This book sets out to explain the benefits of the Technique, which McGowan calls 'Constructive Awareness' for spiritual work.  McGowan emphasises that spiritual work begins by being in oneself, in the here and now, and points out the dangers of physical misuse during meditation, breathing exercises and hatha yoga.  The AT principles of inhibition and direction are described using almost exclusively Alexander's choice of words and style of phrasing.

The spiritual philosophy adhered to is that of Paul Brunton's, whose key concepts included reincarnation, the 'Overself' and mentalism.  McGowan also discusses detachment and the way of inspired action (necessary when aspiring to the state of Sage or Master).

This is a thought provoking, generous and reasoned work - but not an easy book to read.  McGowan candidly warns, in the introduction, that scintillating statements and flowing lines are not his forte.

About the Author
Daniel McGowan is an AT teacher with many years experience and a Head of Training at the Centre for Constructive Awareness and Related Education (CCARE).

Going Mental
by Daniel McGowan

Published 2000                        77 pages

This is a short book about the philosophy of mentalism which, however, is not explained.  Part 1 - The Mentalistics of Self - discusses how the skeleton is balanced (upright, standing still) by muscels contracting to keep the structure from falling.  This ultra-simplified, mechanical view is explained over 20 pages with detailed illustrations.  Part 2 - Bits and Pieces - covers diverse subjects such as bending, fitness, exercises, learning, pupil stories - all from the point of view of either mentalism or the Alexander Technique.

The book is prone to unsubstantiated, sweeping generalisations with no particular structure or order, and may be a little confusing to the reader without prior knowledge of both the Technique and mentalism.

About the Author
Daniel McGowan is an AT teacher with many years experience and a Head of Training at the Centre for Constructive Awareness and Related Education (CCARE).

Indications on Constructive Awareness
by Daniel McGowan

This little book is full of gems of wisdom about constructive awareness. The author, Daniel McGowan offers small bite-size insights into the concept of ‘constructive awareness’. He calls these insights “indications” and they have been collated during the 27 years he has been teaching constructive awareness to both individuals and in his training schools in Berlin, Germany and Totnes in Devon, UK. The book is aimed at people who have some experience in constructive awareness and is based on a synthesis of the work of FM Alexander, Paul Brunton’s revelations of mentalism and Daniel’s own research in the field of the spiritual quest.

About the Author
Daniel McGowan is an AT teacher with many years experience and a Head of Training at the Centre for Constructive Awareness and Related Education (CCARE).

Up From Down Under
by Rosslyn McLeod

Published 1995                        148 pages

Subtitled 'The Australian Origins of Frederick Matthias Alexander and the Alexander Technique, this is a biography of Alexander until 1904 when he left for London.  It covers the story of his grandparents who were sent as convicts to Tasmania, the living conditions there and Alexander's successful career, first in the Tin Mining industry and later as a reciter in Tasmania, New Zealand, Melbourne and Sydney.

The author has done a lot of original research and many new details, reviews and advertisements by and about Alexander are presented for the first time.  The book includes a list of poems that Alexander recited.  It includes no new material on the Technique itself.

About the Author
Rosslyn McLeod is an Australian teacher of the Alexander Technique based in Adelaide.

In a Nutshell - The Alexander Technique - Step by Step Guide
by Ailsa Masterton

Published 1998                        52 pages

This small and short introductory guide has one or more colour pictures on each page. It touches on some of the basic principles of the Technique and topics discussed include working with a teacher and helping oneself (sitting, standing, lying down, writing). Three case histories are presented.

OUT OF PRINT

Let Your Life Flow
by Alex Maunder

Published 2002                        241 pages

Subtitled 'The Physical, Psychological and Spiritual Benefits of the Alexander Technique', this book is a very personal interpretation of the Technique.  Maunder is clearly passionate about using the principle of the Alexander Technique not only for physical reasons, but also for psychological transformation and in our spiritual journeys, and he sees this emphasis as something traditionally missing in the Alexander world.

What you make of this book will likely depend on your own view about some of the 'new age' concepts like 'inner intuitive wisdom', Higher Spriritual Self, cosmic energy' and 'inner perfection, which are presented here with little reference or argument.  Maunder also proposes new terminology for Alexander's key concepts, which some Alexander teachers have found controversial - eg speaking of 'creative indifference' for 'inhibition', and offering a new set of directions or, more accurately, self-affirmations.

About the Author
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Alex Maunder ran a vegetarian restaurant in Copenhagen before qualifying as a teacher of the Alexander Technique with Yehuda Kuperman in Basel, Switzerland.  He has been a teaching member of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Teachers since 1988 and is now based in London.

The Alexander Technique - Freedom in Thought and Action
by Tasha Miller and David Longstroth

Published 2007

This book should be available shortly - please e-mail for details.   Also available as an e-book on CD-Rom which is in stock.

This book "...explains the phenomenon of the Alexander Technique with vision and absolute clarity... a precious and invaluable resource... an inspirational book” Dr. Anne Hughes, MB, BS (General Practitioner, South Wales, United Kingdom).   “...two writers who are so articulate and stylish, so broadly read in their subject, and so sensible in their commentary...a very healthy and much needed work.  The final chapter should be read and digested by all members of the Alexander Community.” Alex Murray (Director of the Urbana Centre for the Alexander Technique and Professor of Flute at the University of Illinois).

IN STOCK - 'The Alexander Technique: Freedom in Thought and Action' CD ROM version.  A hyperlinked and searchable digital book 129 pages with illustrations and colour photos. 

The Alexander Technique - Freedom in Thought and Action
by Tasha Miller and David Longstroth

CD-Rom (PDF)              Published 2007                        129 pages

This is the CD-Rom version of this book, hyperlinked and searchable digital book in PDF format.  129 pages with illustrations and colour photos.  It also includes copies of Adobe Acrobat Reader for Windows and Mac for convenience (programs which allow the book to be read on screen).

This book "...explains the phenomenon of the Alexander Technique with vision and absolute clarity... a precious and invaluable resource... an inspirational book” Dr. Anne Hughes, MB, BS (General Practitioner, South Wales, United Kingdom).   “...two writers who are so articulate and stylish, so broadly read in their subject, and so sensible in their commentary...a very healthy and much needed work.  The final chapter should be read and digested by all members of the Alexander Community.” Alex Murray (Director of the Urbana Centre for the Alexander Technique and Professor of Flute at the University of Illinois).

The paperback book of this title should be available shortly - please e-mail for details. 

Body, Breath and Being - A New Guide to the Alexander Technique
by Carolyn Nicholls

Published 2008                        160 pages

This is one of the newer titles on the Technique, a popular market book but aimed at the beginner and expert alike.  Body, Breath and Being explores the Alexander Technique through the experiences of those who have studied it and benefited from it. The book is practical and illustrative, including over 100 full colour photographs and diagrams.  It provides practical experiments in every chapter and includes a CD of detailed instructions and advice and a half-price lesson voucher.

About the Author
Carolyn Nicholls runs the Brighton Alexander Technique College in the UK.  She trained as an Alexander Technique teacher with Walter and Dilys Carrington and graduated in 1982.  After qualification she built up a private practice in London as well as teaching on the Carrington's course.  Carolyn spent a year as Dilys's apprentice, learning the systematic approach to the training of new students in the use of their hands.

The Alexander Technique In Conversation with John Nicholls and Sean Carey
by John Nicholls and Sean Carey

Published 1991                        122 pages

This book is more an interview than a conversation from two eminent AT teacher trainers and the informal style enables the authors to cover many areas of the Technique.  Nicholls and Carey avoid getting lost in technicalities or lengthy arguments and in this way much information is made available to the lay reader.  However, this is not an introduction to the Technique and is addressed mainly to teachers.  It addresses areas such as cure versus development, emotional reaction and feelings, natural good use versus conscious good use, the practicalities of teaching and the teacher-student relationship.

The Appendix contains Nicholls' Memorial Lecture - 'The Alexander Technique in a Larger Context'.

About the Authors
John Nicholls trained in London from 1973 to 1976 with Walter and Dilys Carrington, and afterwards assisted the Carringtons daily on their teacher training course for eleven years.  He has subsequently directed Alexander teacher training programs in England, Australia, and the USA.  John, along with Nanette Walsh, is currently director of the ATNYC Alexander teacher training program in New York City. He maintains a private practice in New York, and directs postgraduate programs for teachers in the USA, UK, and other European countries.

Sean Carey is an AT teacher in London.  Formerly a researcher and lecturer in social anthropology, he qualified in 1985, having become interested in the AT after breaking his leg in a motorbike accident.  He now runs workshops for doctors and members of the British Dental Association.  He is co-author of three books on the AT including Explaining the Alexander Technique with Walter Carrington.

The Man Who Mastered Habit
by Edward Owen

Re-published 2011 (originally published 1950s)           16 pages

This is a 16 page 4x5 inch pamphlet republished from the 1950's. An excellent introduction to the Alexander Technique by Edward Owen who studied with F.M. Alexander. This pamphlet can be a useful promotional piece for new and prospective students.

The Art of Changing
by Glen Park

Published 2000                        288 pages

This book describes itself as "A New Approach to the Alexander Technique - moving toward a more balanced expression of the whole self" and it focuses on exploration of its relationship with the 'human energy body'.   It offers a decent introduction to the Technique as well.

Glen Park begins by explaining Alexander's basic principles and then applies these principles to emotional, mental and spiritual dimensions, considering the human body as an energy system surrounded by an aura and organised by different chakras or energy centres.  She talks about releasing negative emotions, using affirmations and balancing your chakras.  But for readers who are not too sure about any of these topics - they are all explained quite simply in this book.   From this perspective, The Art of Changing gives some fascinating insights into how we function and how we can allow positive change to occur in our lives.

This work has sold over 25,000 copies and is now presented in a newly revised edition with additional photographs and diagrams, as well as updated drawings by Delia Hardy.

About the Author
Glen Park combines her work is a Teacher of the Alexander Technique with auras and energy work in what she calls ‘psychophysical integration’.  She is based in Devon, and has run workshops all over the world.  Recently she has returned to her interest in theatre and performance, and runs several workshops working with actors and drama students.

Body Mapping for Flutists

What Every Flute Player Needs to Know About the Body
by Lea Pearson

Published 2006            109 pages

This spiral bound book promotes injury prevention and enhanced performance through increased awareness of body mechanics. Certified Andover Educator and flutist Lea Pearson offers students and teachers easy to understand solutions to common body alignment problems. The illustrations throughout also help you formulate your own body map.

With Body Mapping for Flutists, you will learn:

• Proper balance when sitting or standing
• Correct arm position and movements
• Free and supported breathing
• Anatomical explanations for how the body works
• How to train your kinesthetic sense
• The importance of efficient movement for musicians
• Practical exercises

About the Author
Lea Pearson, flutist, holds a DMA degree in flute performance from the Ohio State University. She was a 1998 Fulbright Scholar at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, where she studied flute performance from an Alexander Technique perspective with Liisa Ruoho. She has studied with Barbara Conable for many years and is a certified Andover Educator.

Not To Do
by Fiona Robb

Published 1999                        185 pages

This is Fiona Mackenzie Robb's personal diary of 21 lessons with Margaret Goldie (1905-1997) between July 1995 and November 1996.  (Margaret Goldie or ‘Miss Goldie’ was an early pupil and trainee of Alexander and subsequently a long-serving and much revered teacher). The result is an intelligent and practical account of one person’s experience of the Alexander Technique, and the diary form is used to good effect.

Not to ‘Do’ is a small, attractive edition in three sections, presented with an eye for quality.  Essentially not very long, it is somewhat extended with generous line-spacing.  Her account of ‘The Lessons’ makes up most of the book, but there is also an ample ‘Introduction’ giving interesting and helpful background information about the author and places her work with Miss Goldie within a context; and ‘The Afterword’, written - it is explained - “for the benefit of those readers who are not familiar with the Technique”, is competent, but reads somewhat dry and such an explanation is better sought elsewhere.

The Art of Swimming - in a New Direction with the Alexander Technique
by Steven Shaw and Armand D'Angour