Alexander Technique for Parkinson's
The only complementary therapy recommended by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Evidence (NICE) is the Alexander Technique to help day-to-day movement for people with Parkinson’s." - Parkinson’s UK Policy Statement with regard to complementary and alternative medicine and therapies.
Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition with physical symptoms that may include:
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tremors,
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loss of balance and coordination,
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freezing and impaired movement
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feelings of anxiety, depression, pain and insomnia.
Although Alexander Technique cannot cure Parkinson's it can help people with the condition manage their symptoms by developing coordination, balance, breathing and mental coping strategies.
"Kathy's calm and sensitive methods have given me new ways of coping with the unpredictable challenges of Parkinson's disease.
Since having lessons with Kathy I have become much more aware of my posture and voice as instruments that I can control, with a little practice and perseverance!
Kathy is an excellent teacher - patient and focused, sympathetic and rigorous.
I highly recommend her to anybody with problems with posture or movement." Elizabeth Eger
A person living with Parkinson's talks about how Alexander Technique helps her to walk with reduced tremor.
Scientific evidence:
A randomised control study at the University of Westminster has shown significant benefits for people with Parkinson's. Benefits included:
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Feeling more positive and less stressed
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Reduced tremors
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Improved balance and posture
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Improved walking
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Improved speech
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Improved self confidence