How is Clinical Somatic Education related to the Alexander Technique?

Clinical Somatic Education utilizes some of the techniques originally set forth by the originator of the Alexander Technique, F. Mathais Alexander. There is a strong component of learning how to feel and sense tension, and a period of becoming ‘reaccustomed’ to new sequences of movement once tension has been eliminated. However, there are two additional techniques which set Clinical Somatic Education apart.

The first technique is a method of ‘tricking’ the body to release tension in order to allow more movement to take place during a session. The second technique is an active movement initiated by the client, which, when combined with specific feedback from the practitioner, can actually recalibrate the level of resting tonus in a particular muscle. It is this active, focused participation of the client which creates a clear distinction between CSE and other modalities.