Traditionally, you learn the Alexander Technique in a series of private lessons that focus exclusively on the elimination of your particular neuromuscular patterns that cause pain or unnecessary tension and limit your ability to function with ease.

Group instruction is a development of the private session. You can learn the theory and practice of the Alexander Technique, sample a teacher's hands-on guidance, and observe and share responses with others in the group.

The workshops are designed to both introduce/review general principles of the Alexander Technique and examine a particular aspect of functioning. All workshop presentations can be expanded to a 2-day seminar format or condensed to a 1 or 2-hour master class or lecture-demonstration. The length of the presentation depends upon the needs and interests of the group.

I am always interested in new ways to bring the Alexander Technique to people with specific interests such as self-care for the back, improving the ergonomics of the work place or applying the Technique to the demands of the dancer, actor, musician, horse back rider, golfer, tennis player, athlete in the gym (safe, efficient use of machines and free weights) to name a few possible topics.

In my private practice, which includes physical therapy services and the teaching of the Alexander Technique, I have worked with people of all ages with a variety of diagnoses. Presentations can be made to people with similar needs and problems such as teens with scoliosis, people with osteoporosis, stroke and brain injury, Parkinson’s Disease, or people with back pain.

Please see the medical rehabilitation section of this website for more information about the application of the Alexander Technique to specific patient populations.

I can tailor a presentation to virtually any group with interest in the Alexander Technique. I would be interested in working with you to develop the ideal program in content and length to introduce the benefits of the Alexander Technique to your group. And I'm willing to travel!

Below is an outline of presentation topics that have been given to date.

THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

Application to DAILY ACTIVITY


• Moving with ease
• Your back, your neck, and your computer
  
  Application to THE PERFORMING ARTS
  
• The musician's dilemma: a general presentation
• Winds, brass: head, neck, back, limbs, and breath
• Upper strings: hand and arm integrated with head, neck and back
• Lower strings: hand and arm integrated with head, neck and back
• Pianists: hand and arm integrated with head, neck and back
• Percussion: the body behind the instruments
• Singers, actors, public speakers: breathing and the voice
• Injury prevention for the dancer
  
  Application to ATHLETICS
  
• Demystifying abdominal strengthening
• The art of stretching
• "Lengthen & Strengthen" making exercise safe and effective
• 2-day seminar for riders on the Alexander Technique
• Weight training and exercise in the gym
• Yoga practice and the Alexander Technique
• Horse riding and the Alexander Technique
  
  Application to MEDICAL REHABILITATION
  
• Back care basics: principles for prevention and recovery
• Posture and osteoporosis: How to improve posture, mobility, and safety with the Alexander Technique
• Applying the Alexander Technique to therapeutic exercise
• Benefits of the Alexander Technique to specific patient populations
• The Breathing Mechanism: how to coordinate our breathing for optimal efficiency for people with breathing compromises of COPD.
  
  Application to PROFESSIONALS
  
• The architect's corner: the computer and the drafting table
• Self-care for the health care provider: how to take care of yourself while taking care of others
• Alexander Technique in the Clinic: application to physical, occupational, speech therapy, and nursing CONTACT IDELLE PACKER to discuss an idea for a presentation in your area or to be notified of upcoming group classes in Asheville and Brevard.
  

LYMPHEDEMA

Participatory Lecture: Understanding Lymphedema


• Anatomy of the Lymphatics (Made Simple)
• Posture, Breathing and Movement to encourage lymphatic flow
• Prevention, Treatment and Management of Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema
  
  

To make an appointment or plan a workshop presentation call (828) 329.7761 or email: idellepacker@gmail.com