Illustration © Joshua Sailo
Dayita Nereyeth trained to teach the Alexander Technique with Robin and Béatrice Simmons between 2018 and 2023. She is the first Alexander Technique teacher to be trained and qualified in India. Dayita teaches the technique to children and adults of all ages. At the moment she is offering private lessons. Stay tuned for public workshops.
What is the Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique is a holistic re-education system that considers your coordination and habitual patterns in movement and stillness. Using simple procedures, the technique allows you to recognise automatic tendencies and offers choices. If practised consistently, the technique may promote better health and overall functioning, allow for ease in action, and enhance the quality of your life.
Who can sign up for lessons?
Anyone! People of all ages and abilities use the Alexander Technique to
- improve balance and coordination in daily activities;
- enhance performance (dance, music, theatre, public speaking, and sports);
- manage chronic conditions, pain, stress, tension, and breathing troubles;
- prevent and recover from injuries;
- acknowledge and unlearn unhelpful habits; and
- revitalise their self-exploration and experience of themselves.
What happens in an Alexander Technique lesson?
Each hands-on lesson is unique, catering to your individual needs. A typical lesson might involve daily actions such as sitting, standing, walking, bending, and lying down. If you have experience with the technique, lessons may include more specialised activities; for example, playing a musical instrument. The primary aim is for you to pick up practical tools you can use to work on yourself.
What is hands-on work?
Hands-on work involves gentle contact and guidance from a qualified Alexander Technique teacher when you are in various balanced arrangements. It is used to help you observe and prevent unnecessary and harmful patterns of tension and compression in your being.
How long does a one-on-one lesson last?
45 minutes.
How many lessons should I sign up for?
You would benefit most from a course of at least five lessons if you are new to the technique. The work is slow, deep, and long-lasting, so the more lessons you sign up for, the more you will understand and gain.
What frequency of lessons is ideal?
If you are new to the technique, daily lessons are an excellent idea, if possible. However, the frequency of lessons is largely based on your availability and interest.
Can I take lessons online?
Yes, but only if you have previously had hands-on lessons from a qualified Alexander Technique teacher. Hands-on contact is the most effective way to learn how to work on yourself.
Are one-on-one lessons recommended for children and teenagers?
Yes, but only as long as their parents/guardians take lessons as well. The Alexander Technique can help children and teenagers boost their confidence and improve their posture; having their parents/guardians as role models facilitates this learning process.
What do I wear to a lesson?
Anything that does not constrict movement and you are comfortable lying down in.
Should I bring anything with me to a lesson?
Just yourself. If you would like to, you may also consider bringing water, a journal and pen to take notes, and a yoga mat.
Do I need to avoid eating before or after a lesson?
No, there are no restrictions. The Alexander Technique can be practised at any time.