We are moving on in class to talk about the Alexander Technique. One of its key principles is that human beings have the ability to change the ways in which we use our bodies. The Alexander Technique is a way to gain conscious control over ourselves and thereby overcome many of the unhelpful habits we have accumulated over the years. In short, it is all about freedom! The key to gaining this freedom is (yes, you guessed it) awareness/mindfulness!!!
To reap the benefits of the Alexander Technique (and Yoga..and life for that matter...) AWARENESS is absolutely essential! But how do I become more aware? Simply be being aware. The following video is by an Indian psychologist and spiritual writer named Anthony De Mello. He wrote an incredible book called "Awareness" which changed my life when I read it four years ago. The following clip is a short segment from that book called "self-observation."
Video 1: Anthony De Mello on "Self-Observation"
1. What is the most important thing you can do when no one can help you?
2. What is the difference between self-observation and self-absorption? What is self-observation?
3. Why do we suffer?
4. Anthony De Mello uses the analogy of the sky and clouds to speak about the relationship between our true "self" and our thoughts/emotions/different states of life. How does he define the the self/"I"?
5. If you understand things they will do what?
6. Finish the sentence from 5.25: "What you judge you ...."
Reflection:
7. What do you think about DeMello's statement, "I am not my depression, I am not my joy?" Who/What is the "I" that can say, "I am not myself?" Make a list of your most precious qualities and character traits. Does that list account for everything that is your "I?" If not, why not?
In the next video, an Alexander teacher named Angela Bradshaw offers a very short introduction to the Alexander Technique. It is impossible to understand what she is saying without standing up and trying out these ideas on your own body. Therefore please watch this video once and follow her directions. Watch a second time and answer the following questions.
Video 2: Ted Talk by Angela Bradshaw on the "Alexander Technique"
1. What happens to us when we experience fear, stress and anxiety? Why?
2. (minute 3.15ish) The Alexander Technique does what?
3. Finish the sentence (4:10ish) "Nature would prefer...."
4. What are the three points of contact for the foot?
5. What are the three hinges in our legs?
6. Where are the hip joints?
7. Allow the pelvis to be heavy like a .....?
8. Where is the top of the spine?
Reflection:
9. What, according to your view of the world, is the connection between your mind and body?
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