May 5, 2011

The Alexander Technique bends, twists and turns the spine in order to get it back in line. For this week's segment of Make Dan Sweat, CBS19's Dan Schutte gave it a try.

"Most of us are unconscious as we go about our lives. We are not aware of what we're doing with our head in space, not aware of the fact that we're only breathing minimally as we sit at the computer for two hours," said Chris Friedman, the owner of Studio 206.

The technique works to correct habits that people give into everyday without thinking about them. The technique does just benefit people while they are in the class, but actually works to change the way they think.

"We can carry excess tension and stress and move in ways that aren't beneficial, that create stress, and maybe some pain, so the technique offers insight on how to do those things better and easier," said Gina Kelley, an Alexander Instructor.

Chris Friedman teaches others how to teach the Alexander Technique and works on fundamentals.

"I help people become aware of the ways they have poor postural habits, they're contributing to aches and pains and injuries, and I teach them the skills to unlearn those habits," said Friedman.

It can take a student three years to become an Alexander Technique instructor, however Friedman says learning for teachers and students never actually ends.