Hi Robb,

I would says that isn’t right at all. I liked your first question and it got me thinking, but remember that this blog is just a list of “tips”, there are no real answers here. I would suggest finding the tip or tips that really speak to you and don’t worry about the one’s that don’t make sense. Maybe it’s just not a good tip. And also, talking about the Alexander Technique doesn’t really get you anywhere, you need to have the experience. If you really want to find answers, find an Alexander teacher and take some lessons.

Leland

Hi Rob,

Thanks, that’s an interesting question.

As one allows the neck to be more free, the head tends to move forward and up in relation to the spine. One could also say that the release of the head forward and up is the head leading. Conscious movement with appropriate tension and clarity does not interfere with the release of the head because the head can always be allowed to release from it’s place, no matter where it is or where it is moving. Of course the head is generally always moving, but at the same time there is also always opportunity to allow for more release of the neck and head. Think of smooth clear movement or comportment, or graceful movement with power and speed. To the degree that the head and neck are releasing, new decisions about movement should be available even during vigorous activity.

The problem comes when before movement starts, even with just with the first response to a stimulus to move, most people tend to pull the head down and back, increasing the tension between the head and neck. This is part of the pattern of being. The neck is always tending toward tension, and then it becomes more tense as energy rises with movement or any response to a stimulus. When that happens it becomes difficult to move the head because it is already busy being held as part of the pattern of the larger movement or response.

In short, I’m looking for less tension between the head and neck. To the degree that one is allowing the neck to be free so that the head can go forward and up, that is how much the head will lead. The head is generally always moving, the release has to happen within the movement and during the stimulus to move. If there is too much tension, conscious movement of the head or a change of movement won’t generally be possible in that moment.

I hope that answers your question.

Leland

The head/neck relationship is fundamental in the Alexander Technique. Alexander himself called it the “Primary Control” and it’s not something a “Tip” can address. If you want to learn what it is really about, you have to explore taking Alexander Technique lessons.

Hi Gary,

It’s an interesting question. People tend to stand their tallest when going down stairs because they don’t want to fall forward. But like all things Alexander, you go upstairs and downstairs in same way.

Leland