The Alexander Technique and the Tomatis Method

This discovery is very significant for students of the Alexander Technique because it suggests that Alexander's work on himself in front of the mirror may have been at least as important in its effect on his capacity to listen as it was on his ability to speak.

Reinforcing this hypothesis is Dr. Tomatis' finding that in order to hear very high pitched sounds, our body must adopt what he calls a "listening posture". From my personal experience with Tomatis' work, and my observations of others who have been exposed to it, this corresponds precisely to the Alexander Technique concept of "good use" - neck free, head releasing forward and up with the whole body following.

As one might expect, the commonly reported benefits of the Tomatis Method include improvements in voice quality, posture, co-ordination, balance and general well being similar to some of those experienced by students of the Alexander Technique.

There are many other fascinating parallel between the Tomatis Method and the Alexander Technique. Both procedures are well worth investigating by anyone interested in exploring the links between the mind and body.

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A comprehensive Tomatis Web Site can be found at http://www.tomatis.com

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