Principles we've discussed:
1. Head leads, body follows
2. More activity = lenghten
3. Suspend bad habits and be observant
4. Bone does the work of bone; muscle does the work of muscle

Reciprocal inhibition - muscles on one side of a joint relaxing to accommodate contraction on the other side of that joint
Co-contraction - muscles contract on both sides, locking the joint . Effects the neurological and the muscles.

Some quotes from class... "Lead with hands". Ribs cone up and out

Today we learned the "monkey" technique. It is a rather interesting concept. Lengthen as you move downward.

When I was able to try this technique, I had some tension just above my knees (quadriceps). Then, with Dr. Conable's assistance, I tried again. This time one of the students came to my rescue. With just a very light touch of two fingers, she helped my knees bend in a natural, outward motion. I then felt support from my bones that made bending over feel effortless.

This really helped me realize how my skeleton supports my body, not my muscles. I am hoping to practice the monkey technique more so that I may bend and reach with freedom.

I had to miss today due to the observation of student teachers.

Over the weekend, I had to rip out overgrown shrubs (miniature rose bushes, and others) in my back yard. In order to pull them, the roots had to be cut and I used a large pick axe. I know that my movement during this activity was probably everything Alexander would say not to do, and I wasn't sure how to go about being "good" while doing this activity.

In class I was able to demonstrate (using Dr. Conable's umbrella) how I went about hacking away at the shrubs. I found out that you can bend over correctly and keep a lengthened body and neck even while bending and doing some really tough work. I bet working with a concious mind may help me be less sore afterwards.

The use of Alexander in all of the activities demonstrated has shown me how versatile this technique really is. I feel like I am only scratching the surface of what it can offer me.

Today we discussed troubles in everyday activities. One particular individual had trouble when typing - showing signs of carpel tunnel syndrome. Dr. Conable worked with her, then took her hands and arms to feel what may have been the problem. After working on her forearm, I swear I saw it grow! It was quite amazing that when she relaxed and let her arm go, it looked longer and she said it was more comfortable.

In general, I've been noticing a lot more about my bad habits and have been more aware of my body and how it moves. I can "feel" my legs rather easily and am working on other parts of my body as well. This class is so interesting and somewhat mysterious. It's incredible how much we DON'T know about our bodies!