Wilfred Barlow (1915–1991)

The Alexander Principle has a worldwide following as a method of mind and body re-education that reduces stress and muscle tension and revitalies all who practise it. Dr. Wilfred Barlow studied under F.M. Alexander himself, and his pioneering book, The Alexander Principle, is now a classic. Recently updated, it is essential reading for everyone interested in the techniques.

'A book that contains much common sense and advice, clearly and colourfully expressed, from which few could fail to gain'-British Medical Journal

'Wilfred Barlow was the first doctor to train as a teacher of the Alexander Technique and remained throughout one of its most brilliant, energetic and influential exponents.'-Guardian

'His stimulating, caring and inspiring teaching methods filled his patients with confidence and trust'-Independent

Contents

Foreword to revised edition
1 The Alexander Principle
2 Use and mis-use
3 Balance
4 Rest
5 Medical diagnosis
6 Use and disease
7 Mental health
8 The psycho-mechanics of sex
9 Personal growth
10 Teaching the principle
11 Learning the principle
12 Applying the principle
Conclusion
Appendices
1 A short biograpy of Alexander
2 Glossary
3 References (bibliography)
Index… (mais)

This is a very interesting read on the benefits of the Technique, but it doesn't describe the Technique itself as in-depth as it could. For instance, Mr. Barlow consistently refers to Alexander's fundamental principle ('Use affects functioning.') to describe causes of various maladies, but he leaves the reader somewhat lost as to the steps to improve one's use. His insights into the causes of disease and malfunction, however, are definitely worth the read.

Contents

Part I-Principles
1 The Alexander principle
2 Use and mis-use
3 Balance and rest
4 Use and disease
5 Mental health
6 The psycho-mechanics of sex
Part II-Practice
7 Teaching the principle
8 Learning the principle
9 Applying the principle
Source notes
References
Index… (mais)