A good sitting position can help reduce back pain

Agenda’s volunteer, Tasha, met Jane Staggs for an introduction to Alexander Technique

Alexander Technique has been steadily growing in popularity as a way to improve posture and manage back problems, with increasing evidence to suggest that it offers long-term benefits for some lower back pain. But according to Cambridge-based practitioner, Jane Staggs, it can also help with headaches, tension, repetitive strain injury and stress.

‘Alexander Technique is of equal value to people who wish to improve their performance of everyday activities,’ says Jane, ‘such as sitting at a desk, gardening or walking.’

What happens in a class?

‘My lesson was one-to-one,’ says Tasha. ‘It was all about making small changes to the way I sit, stand and breathe, concentrating on how to hold and move my spine. Jane was very encouraging, gently re-adjusting my posture and talking me through the process’

What was Tasha’s verdict?

‘I have a bad shoulder but I could feel an improvement in it even after an hour lesson so I would recommend Alexander Technique.’

Alexander Technique one hour introductory lesson, £15, alexawareness.co.uk, 01223 312374

Jane Staggs is a member of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique and advisor to the charity Backcare