Joy's upcoming group classes:

Introduction to the Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is a dynamic process of body learning that is beneficial for people having back, neck or shoulder pain, arthritis, repetitive strain injuries, and breathing or postural problems.  It is also used by performing artists and athletes to refine and improve their skills.  In this introductory class, you will learn to reduce stress and improve posture, breathing, and coordination while effortlessly performing simple tasks such as walking, sitting, bending and speaking.  Joy Jacobson, formerly a dancer and personal fitness trainer, was certified by The American Center for the Alexander Technique in 1992.  Wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat to class.

7 Thursdays, October 7 - December 2 (no class Nov. 11, Veteran's Day and Nov. 25, Thanksgiving),   7:15-8:15 pm.    MHS-Palmer Small (Wrestling) Gym. 

Cost: $110

Freedom from Back pain Using the Alexander Technique

Everyday stress, poor posture and inefficient movement habits lead many of us to unconsciously misalign and misuse our bodies. Most back pain is a result of this poor body use. The Alexander Technique helps you to become aware of these harmful patterns and teaches you how  to let go of chronic tensions that are interfering with your body's inherent ability to lengthen and move freely.   This class will will give you practical Alexander skills to help control, and reverse back pain.  Joy Jacobson, formerly a dancer and personal fitness trainer, was certified by The American Center for the Alexander Technique in 1992.  Wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat to class.

7 Tuesdays, October 12 - November 23, 7:15 - 8:15 pm, Central School Upstairs Gym

Cost: $110

Both classes are given through the Larchmont & Mamaroneck Continuing Education Program

For more information and registration, log on to www.LMCCE.org or call 914-698-9126. You can also register in person at The Center for Continuing Education, room 126, Palmer Building, Mamaroneck High School. The office is open from 9 am - 1 pm, Monday - Friday.

Healthy Back For Life at the Rye Y

Improve posture and reduce back pain using core strengthening exercises and the Alexander Technique. This 9-week program is for those currently suffering from back pain and those who want to keep it from ever developing. By the end of the session you will learn to do everything from sitting in a chair to running in a more functional and pain free way.

Wednesdays 11:30 - 12:15

Session 1: Sept. 15 - Nov. 10

Session 2: Nov. 17 - Jan. 26

Members: $150; Non-members: $200

For on-line registration, log on to www.ryeymca.org - click on "Register Online for Classes". You can also register in person at the Rye YMCA, 21 Locust Ave., Rye, NY 10580, 914-967-6363.

links about the alexander technique

Is your office chair killing you? An interesting article in Bloomberg Businessweek talks about the effects that sitting in chairs has on our bodies. Here is Brian Leher's interview with the author on NPR.

A major medical study in England, published by the British Medical Journal in 2008, found that lessons in the Alexander Technique have long term benefits for patients with chronic back pain, and are the most cost-effective way to treat back pain.

A video produced by the British Medical Journal summarizing the above study.

Another video about what ABC thinks of this important study.

Oprah's thoughts on the Alexander Technique.

The American Society for the Alexander Technique (AmSAT), the largest professional organization of Alexander teachers in the U.S.

The American Center for the Alexander Technique (ACAT), one of the oldest teacher certification programs in the U.S.

The Complete Guide to the Alexander Technique.

links to alexander-related activities

Vocalist, an international mailing list for singers and singing teachers: http://www.vocalist.org