Student Testimonials
Dear Alexis,
I will always be grateful to you for making me feel taller, wider, and, best of all, more at ease and confident in my own body. You are a great and kind teacher.
-- Julie G, Writer
Dear Alexis,
The rheumatologist who has followed my degenerative arthritis for the last three years decided I should have an MRI done so she could evaluate any new deterioration.
When I arrived for my MRI, I laid flat on my back and they slid me into the tube circled by the rotating cameras. I have claustrophobia so I distracted myself by "thinking up a long my spine" and "widening and lengthening.”
The technician talked to me through a headset and could see that my body, arms and legs were motionless. Nevertheless, after 45 minutes he announced that my vertebrae and spine were in constant motion and I would have to be anesthetized for the procedure. I told him I was lying perfectly still, could he not see that. He agreed. And then I realized that my mind was directing my spine to widen and lengthen.
I was elated. The movement of my vertebrae resulting from my directions as you had taught me had been captured on film!
I happily canceled the MRI and danced all the way home. I pacified my doctor by suggesting a simple X-ray of my back. The picture was taken and the doctor has diagnosed a 67 year old woman with arthritis, moderate scoliosis and an obstinate refusal to agree to be anesthetized for an MRI.
My doctor appeared unimpressed when I reported my success in improving my general well being and posture through Alexander classes. However, the simple X-ray of my back indicated that there was improvement in my scoliosis which is almost unheard of at my age. The clinician who had supervised my physical therapy but had not found any exercises or regimen that addressed my hunched-over posture was just amazed. He was extremely supportive and complimentary. Rather than being threatened, he was eager to utilize my experience in helping others.