I am an experienced posture specialist in Bristol, offering an evidence-based and preventive approach to posture and pain.
Perhaps you, like many, have tried things to improve your posture which haven’t really worked. For example, maybe you’ve thought:
- ‘I’ve had some relief from chiropractors, physio, acupuncture or posture therapists – but why do my old habits just come back?‘
- ‘I’ve tried posture exercises to ‘strengthen my core’ – but why do I seem to slouch just as often?‘
- ‘I’ve worn a posture corrector – but where’s the evidence that they’re good for you?‘
Busting posture myths
Over the years, I’ve worked with hundreds of people – and for most of them, posture is not what they think it is. Here are some ideas around posture you might rethink:
- ‘Pull your shoulders back!’ – in fact, voluntarily holding a position doesn’t change our postural system which is by its nature automatic.
- ‘Sit up straight!’ – good posture isn’t even about positions! That’s because the way the postural system works means you could be holding a position either freely or with tension.
- ‘Work on your core!’ – we should be skeptical of this idea because, most of the time, posture requires very low levels of muscle activity. Scientists even tell us it’s around 2-5% of our maximum muscle capacity!
So, what does work?
The Alexander Technique (AT) is a tried and tested approach which has been transforming people’s lives for over a hundred years. It works on a preventive principle: unlearn the habits which cause you harmful tension and you’ll regain your mental and physical poise.
Evidence from large-scale NHS research shows that AT significantly reduces back and neck pain.
Scientists have discovered that AT improves postural tone, which is the muscle activity required to hold you up against gravity. There is evidence that AT redistributes muscle activity from superficial to deeper layers, and makes it more adaptable.
You can watch a two minute explainer here:
What should I do then to improve my posture?
The Alexander Technique involves hands-on guidance from an expert. The easiest thing to do is to book a trial session in central Bristol to experience for yourself the changes that are possible. The trial is at a special reduced rate.
You can also browse this site to:
- read about me, my qualifications and experience
- understand the science of the Alexander Technique
- listen to a free lying down audio
- discover many interesting blog posts
- sign up to my monthly newsletter for news, tips and offers
Wishing you good luck on your posture journey, and do get in touch with any queries.