I’ve
known rivers
I’ve known rivers ancient as the world
and older than the flow of human blood in human
veins
The
Alexander Technique is concerned with posture.
Lessons in the Technique explore ‘directions’.
Directions are commands which encourage the
body to stand at its full height.
These commands
are not orders in the normal sense
of the word, where the command requires the order
to be carried out directly and immediately. Instead,
directions take into account that upright posture
was patiently explored and gradually refined over
millions of years. Like the ancient rivers, the
directions the body follows to fill its height
are well established and deeply embedded. Directing
is the art of participation, working with forces
already ongoing and present.
These ancient rivers
established over time convey us to the heavens,
root us on the earth and broaden
the back, mirroring the breadth of the landscape.
Through the Alexander Technique we feel these forces
at work. And learn that there is nothing to be
done. To be conscious is to be alert, to get out
of the way, and to allow these forces to work.
Stopping is the key. With stopping, obstacles dissolve
and muscles release. Then to listen and hear the
sound of the river flowing and feel its force spreading
us from within out into space.
Opening out reveals
a space within. This inner space contains memories,
deep traces of experience
sculpted and woven into the fabric of muscular
being. Soul is imprinted on the muscular flow that
at once establishes our footing and lifts us skyward.
These rivers emanate from the source of creation
and carry the stories we have lived.
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