picture-16Alexander Technique In The Kitchen

For those of you who are unfamiliar, or haven’t been in one in a while, the kitchen is the room with stove, oven, sink and dishes. The oven is the thing under the stove…

We seldom do our ‘regular work’ in the kitchen, making it an environment where the stimulus is usually not turned up. This helps make it another perfect place to practice the Alexander Technique.

At our recent Alexander Technique lesson, one of my Alexander Technique students told me she noticed how much extra effort and tension she was using while chopping vegetables. Under normal circumstances we are not angry at vegetables. Next time you’re cutting something, take a moment and pause. Notice the grip you are using while holding the knife. If you are gripping your hands more than necessary are you also over-using your forearm, bicep, shoulder, neck, or facial muscles?

When applying the Alexander Technique it is sometimes useful to exaggerate your habit, just to examine what’s going on. Notice if there’s excess tension as you hold a pot, or frying pan, or even as you open a refrigerator door or cabinet.

How much force do you really need to wash a dish? Notice any extra effort, and let it go.

We reach for things constantly in the kitchen. Every time you reach for something there is an opportunity to apply the Alexander Technique. When reaching, think of your fingertips leading the movement instead of thrusting your arm out from your shoulders.

Remember: the Alexander Technique is more than just a way to improve your posture. It is a skill you can learn for life.

Mark Josefsberg-Alexander Technique NYC

Mark@MarkJosefsberg.com

(917) 709-4648