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Welcome
Welcome to the April 2017 edition of the newsletter. We hope you enjoy it! A special welcome if you are new to the Alexander Technique mailing list. We will not fill up your inbox as you will be only sent an e-newsletter about 3-4 times a year.
The Alexander technique is a wonderful tool for transformation and the most powerful way to implement it is to immerse yourself for a whole week. This summer we are offering two opportunities again in which you can do that - in southern Spain and in Co Dublin. Details below.
There is only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving, and that's your own self.
— Aldous Huxley
Featured in this issue:
- Magical Alexander Technique Holiday in Southern Spain
- Emmaus Immersion course
- Special Offer: free CD with books by Richard Brennan
- The 2nd International Alexander Teacher's Convention, Dublin 2017
- Performer's Workshop with Vivien Mackie (Scotland), 9th - 11th May 2017
- Workshops in May 2017 with Malcolm Balk (Canada): The Alexander Technique and Running
- 'Knowing How to Stop': Three day Workshop with Alexander Farkas, 13 - 15th June 2017
- Training Course News:
- Short Courses with Richard Brennan
Magical Alexander Technique Holiday in Southern Spain, 3rd - 10th June 2016
Cortijo Romero is a breathtakingly beautiful alternative holiday centre like no other; in a magnificent Andalucian mountain setting; delightful accommodation and delicious healthy food. There's a superb range of holistic personal development courses and retreats, with outstanding facilitators: yoga, tai chi, dance, massage and more - all in 'one of the most inspiring and uplifting areas in the world'.
— National Geographic magazine
Learning the Alexander Technique in the wonderful holistic centre of Cortijo Romero is a magical experience and has all the ingredients you need to relax, unwind and rejuvenate. Many people feel that they learn the Alexander Technique far more easily here as they say they can let go of muscular tension far more quickly due to the centre's peaceful location and atmosphere.
Cortijo Romero is situated in the wonderful La Alpujarra mountains, in an unspoiled Natural Park in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in Granada province, deep in the south of Spain. It sits at 1300 feet in a fertile valley, within an 800-year old olive grove, surrounded by magnificent mountain views. (Not only in daytime: watching the stars over the mountains at midnight from the roof is a magical experience!)
The bedrooms are simply but comfortably furnished in local style, all with bath or shower, and central heating in winter. Most are singles or twins, with a few doubles. And there is a private swimming pool in the centre of complex which is available to use at all times. All the food is vegetarian, including eggs and dairy produce, using as much local and organic produce as possible. It's a diet suited to the environment - delicious, varied, nourishing and much appreciated by the guests.
The price of the holiday include all course tuition, accommodation and all meals. For special diets like vegan, dairy-free and wheat-free as well as some medically prescribed ones, there is a small extra charge of £17 per week, booked before you travel. An Early bird discount of £30 applies if you book 3 months ahead. You only have to place your £100 deposit to do this.
For further information please visit www.cortijo-romero.co.uk
Alexander Technique Immersion at the Emmaus Centre, Co Dublin, 22nd - 26th May 2017
Treat yourself to a residential Alexander Technique workshop over 5 days in a peaceful conference centre in a beautiful setting, with relaxed atmosphere near Swords, Co. Dublin.
The course is suitable both for people new to the Technique, and those who have had some experience. The course will include an individual session every day, from teachers and 3rd year training course students, as well as looking at everyday activities such as breathing and walking.
Starts Mon 10:00 AM, and ends Fri 2:30 PM. Cost €540. All meals, tuition and accommodation are included in the price. Although it is possible to take part in the course non-residentially, we have found that those who stay at the centre gain greater benefit from the week. To book, please contact Emmaus directly: Tel: 01 8700050, Email: info@emmauscentre.ie, Website: www.emmauscentre.ie.
Special Offer: free CD with either of two books by Richard Brennan
We are giving away this Alexander self-help CD completely free (normally €17) to all those ordering either of the two books below. The perfect accompaniment to any of the Alexander Technique books, it lasts for 40 minutes and talks you through a simple procedure that helps you let go of unwanted muscle tension. This will improve your breathing and posture, and in turn can prevent or relieve backache, neck-ache, headaches and stress. Designed to be used over and over again, benefiting you each time.
To redeem this offer please go to www.alexander.ie/books.html, choose and order a book, then forward your Paypal book order confirmation to news@alexander.ie, quoting the free CD offer.
Mind and Body Stress Relief with the Alexander Technique
As the title suggests this book tells you how to reduce physical, mental and emotional stress. Topics covered include worry, depression, insomnia and panic attacks. It is suitable for those new to the Technique as well as those who have had Alexander Technique lessons. No other book explains how the stress of the mind directly causes excessive muscle tension. 185 pages Illustrated with line drawings.
The new 2015 printed edition was updated in 2011 to include a summary of important new research reported in the British Medical Journal in 2008, which showed significant long-term benefits of the Alexander Technique to back sufferers. The useful addresses and further reading sections have also been updated with new websites and book titles.
The Alexander Technique: Natural Poise for Health
This is an ideal introduction to the Alexander Technique as it is straightforward and easy to read. Perfect for those who know little or nothing about the Technique. Each chapter explains the principles and concepts behind the technique clearly without jargon or anatomical terms. There is also a section about how Alexander evolved his technique. Illustrated with clear line drawings.
The new 2015 printed edition was thoroughly revised and updated throughout in 2013. The useful websites and further reading sections have been updated with new websites and book titles. There are new recommendations in the back pages for chairs, cushions, footwear and desks.
The 2nd International Alexander Teacher's Convention, Dublin 2017
Come and join us at the 2nd International Alexander Technique Convention in Dublin in April 2017!
This week is primarily designed for Alexander Teachers and teacher trainees, but anyone with a sincere desire to learn more about the Alexander Technique is welcome.
There are still places at the convention which takes place in Dublin from the 9th to 15th April 2017. The Convention is designed to deepen your understanding and advance your teaching and communication skills to empower you in taking Alexander's principles forward into the future without losing the essence of the Work. The structure of this week-long convention includes daily workshops, open-minded discussions, work exchanges and networking opportunities which will foster a sense of community, sharing, laughter and integration of learning.
Presenters include Giora Pinkas, Yehuda Kuperman, Anthony Kingsley, Trisha Hemingway, Wolfgang Weiser, Niall Kelly, Glenna Batson, Tommy Thompson, Rosa Luisa Rossi, Jeando Masoero, Francine Schoonens and Barbro Olsson.
For more information please visit www.alexanderconvention.com.
Performer's Workshop with Vivien Mackie (Scotland), 9th - 11th May 2017
Vivien is an Alexander teacher and world-renowned cellist who had the rare good fortune to study extensively with the famous cellist and teacher-extraordinary Pablo Casals. The exciting parallels between his teaching and that of F.M. Alexander led her to train with Walter Carrington from 1970 to 1973.
Later on, singing lessons with Angela Caine, and collaboration with her in workshops, opened up a whole new field of discovery.
She draws on her learning from these three remarkable teachers in her work today, and on what she learned from the three year Alexander Training Course she ran in Australia whose students were all musicians.
Course Details
Dates: Tuesday 9th – Thursday 11th May 2017
Times: 10am until 4pm each day
Venue: The Alexander Training College, Moycullen, Co. Galway
Directions: www.alexander.ie/directions.html
Cost: €200 for three days or €75 for one day
Suitable for: Everyone, including singers and musicians, without or without Alexander Technique experience.
To Book: Please contact Richard Brennan on 091 555800 or email info@alexander.ie
Workshops in May 2017 with Malcolm Balk (Canada): The Alexander Technique and Running
After a very successful visit to the Centre last August, Malcolm will be returning to do a number of running workshops in May 2017.
Malcolm Balk qualified with Patrick Macdonald in 1984. In addition to maintaining a private practice in Montreal, he also teaches at Plattsburgh State University in New York. Originally attracted to the Technique because of major tension issues while playing the cello, he is also a Level 4 running coach and still competes in his veteran category (2012 Canadian Age Group winner: half marathon). In 1991 he developed The Art of Running workshop which has been enjoyed by runners all over the world. Malcolm's book, Master the Art of Running with the Alexander Technique has sold over 20,000 copies.
We all think we know how to run. After all, it's as natural as putting one foot in front of the other. To often, though, an activity which should be pleasurable and fulfilling instead leads to frustration and injury. Learn how to achieve and maintain fitness without injury and how to overcome self-imposed limitations.
Course Details
Dates: Wednesday 17th + Thursday 18th May 2017
Times: 9.30am to 4pm each day
Suitable for: This workshop is open to all and does not demand a high level of fitness.
Venue: The Alexander Training College, Moycullen, Co. Galway
Directions: www.alexander.ie/directions.html
Cost: €75 per day. You can attend either day, or both days.
To Book: Please contact Richard Brennan on 091 555800 or email info@alexander.ie
Can't make those dates?
No problem. Malcolm is also doing extra workshops during the weekend of 12th - 14th May. For further information, please contact Michaela Wohlgemuth on 087 7556558 or michaelawohlgemuth@gmail.com.
'Knowing How to Stop': Three day Workshop with Alexander Farkas, 13 - 15th June 2017
Alexander Farkas is a musician who first encountered the Alexander Technique through a singer he was accompanying in New York City some years ago. His very first teacher was Judith Stransky (honoured guest at Limerick Congress in 2015) but it wasn't until he had a lesson with Patrick Macdonald that he thought of becoming a teacher. He eventually trained with Shoshana Kaminitz in London qualifying in 1998. Additional lessons with Miss Goldie and Elisabeth Walker.
Alex travels internationally as well as maintaining a teaching practice in New York and also teaches the Technique at Bard College (US).
He considers himself a traditionalist teacher of the Alexander Technique but his interest in Qi Gong and Zen studies has greatly influenced his work. In his view Alexander's greatest contribution to the world is in the area of inhibition and non-doing. More and more he has come to consider this principle as the basis of the Technique.
How else can we be open to new and unfamiliar experiences? His favourite Alexander quote is 'the right thing will do itself,' much as we find that hard to believe.
On a practical level he finds guiding the putting-hands-on experience most effective in coming to understanding the core of the Technique.
Course Details
Dates: Tuesday 13th - Thursday 15th June 2017
Times: 10am until 4pm each day
Suitable for: For everyone, including singers and musicians, with or without Alexander Technique experience.
Venue: The Alexander Training College, Moycullen, Co. Galway
Directions: www.alexander.ie/directions.html
Cost: €200 for three days or €75 for one day.
To Book: Please contact Richard Brennan on 091 555800 or email info@alexander.ie
Training Course News
New Teacher Graduates from the training course
Heartfelt congratulations to Christina Dercum who graduated on the 15th March. Christina will still be at the training course as she will be doing a post-graduate year at the college. It has been wonderful to have Christina's dynamic presence at the training course for last three years and we look forward to her continuing here at the college in the future.
Special Offer: 10% off first term's fees
€200 off the first term at the Alexander centre in Galway to new students.
This September we are offering two places at a very special rate for those who wish to learn more about the Alexander Technique either with a view to pursuing a new career, or just to help themselves. Each day includes an individual lesson and group work. This term really could transform your life for the better.
Enrolments
Ever thought of becoming an Alexander teacher? To find out more about this very rewarding career please go to www.alexandertechniqueireland.com
There are two places available on the Alexander Technique Training Course, starting in April 2017, and another two places coming up in September 2017. You can apply for either term anytime.
Visiting the Training Course
Although the Training Course is primarily for those who wish to train to become Alexander Technique teachers, we do welcome those who wish to visit for a day, a week or even a whole term, by arrangement, to improve their own understanding of the Technique. It is an ideal environment for those who enjoy learning the technique in a group. You will receive individual sessions as well as join in group sessions on various subjects including standing, walking, sitting and breathing.
Open Week at the Training College in Galway, 2nd - 5th May 2017 (free)
If you have ever considered doing further training in the Alexander Technique, either for you own personal interest, or with a view to becoming a teacher of the Alexander Technique, then you may be interested in the open week at the college. During this week people can come to the college for a day or a week and join in on the sessions.
It is open to all those who have already had some lessons or who have been to an introductory workshop.
This week is completely free to those who have never been to the college before, and half price (€100) to those who have visited before.
Please see www.alexandertechniqueireland.com for more information about the training. To book a place please call 091 555800 or email info@alexander.ie.
Three month Postgraduate Diploma Course starting in September 2017 in Galway
Anyone who has completed a 3 year Alexander Technique teacher training course is welcome to apply. The course will include one hands-on lesson each day for yourself; working with people who have had little or no experience of the technique; how to start and sustain a successful practice teaching the Alexander Technique; and many other related topics such as neuroscience and how to read MRI reports.
Cost: €995
Please contact Richard for full details 091 555800 or email info@alexander.ie.
Term Dates 2017
Summer Term 2017
Start and end of term: Tuesday 25th April – Thursday 29th June
Mid-term break: 4th - 10th June
Autumn Term 2017
Start and end of term: Tuesday 19th September – Thursday 7th December
Mid-term break: 30th October - 5th November
Course hours: Tues 2.30–6.30pm, Weds 9.30am–4pm, Thurs 9.30am–1.30pm, Fri 9–12 noon
For full details please visit: www.alexandertechniqueireland.com.
Short Courses with Richard Brennan
Forthcoming Introductory and Intermediate short courses led by Richard Brennan are given below.
For booking information and further details about the short courses below, please visit our short courses page. Please note that you are also welcome to visit the college for intermediate training. For courses run by other qualified teachers, see also the ISATT course page.
Emmaus Centre, Lissenhall, Swords, Co Dublin
22nd - 26th May 2017
Alexander Technique Immersion: Residential Five Day Course
€525
Chrysalis, Co Wicklow
27th May 2017
One Day Workshop
Further details will shortly be available on our short courses page
Cortijo Romero, Orgiva, Granada, Spain
3rd - 10th June 2017
Change Your Posture, Change Your Life:
Residential week-long workshop in a beautiful holiday centre in southern Spain
£665 (discount price before 3rd March 2017, later £695)
Emmaus Centre, Lissenhall, Swords, Co Dublin
7th - 8th October 2017
Back In Balance: Residential Weekend Workshop
€195 (non residential €145)
National University of Ireland (Adult Education), Galway
14th + 21st October 2017
Change Your Posture, Change Your Life: Two day introductory workshop
€120
Esker Retreat Centre, Athenry, Co Galway
24th - 26th November 2017
Back In Balance: Residential Weekend Workshop
€165 (€90 non-residential)