"The Use of the Self", F. M. Alexander's most popular book, presents the core of his revolutionary technique of healing and self-actualization. Alexander observed that incorrect "use of the self" - our basic patterning of movement and expression - lies at the root of much human suffering. He sought the remedy in himself, and after years of investigation, introduced his system of training to the world.
F. M. Alexander (1869-1955) was a Shakespearean actor and reciter who, after periods of tension and "over-use" of his voice, lost his ability to speak. This sent him into an intense period of self-investigation which, after seven years, led to his groundbreaking discovery.
Based on the observation that we trap ourselves in habits that impede our functioning, Alexander's technique re-educates individuals to make the best use of their innate capacities - what he calls "The Use of the Self."
Though developed nearly a century ago, the Alexander Technique continues to increase in popularity - because it works. People from all walks of life have benefited from the Alexander Technique, using it to decrease tension and overcome stress-related injuries. Musicians and performing artists find the Technique enhances their performance. Students of Gurdjieff and of Western Buddhist traditions have discovered significant parallels with their own systems, and have employed the Alexander Technique as an effective tool for training self-observation and mindfulness-in-action.
Hearing Alexander's words spoken in this recording provides a degree of accessibility unavailable in the original written presentation. Those unfamiliar with Alexander's work will find this a good introduction; practitioners and students will benefit from the clear expression of this text by a reader who has years of practical experience with the material.
"The Alexander Technique gives all the things we have been looking for ... We cannot ask more from any system, nor, if we seriously desire to alter human beings in a desirable direction, can we ask any less." -Aldous Huxley
JOHN BARON
The reader, John A. Baron, was a professional actor in his native England for ten years. He is currently Co-Director of the Alexander Education Center and has a private practice in Sausalito, California. Here he brings his experience as an Alexander Teacher and his theatrical training together in an evocative, compelling reading.
