A Year of Exploration: Annual Review & Research Discoveries
The ASO Newsletter - 37th Edition
Enabling greater understanding of the Alexander Technique.
Introduction
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As we reflect on another year, let's take a journey through the insightful and diverse work of our community. From unraveling the unexpected links in caregiving to the harmonies with opera and engaging in thought-provoking interviews, each month brought a fresh lens to the world of AT research.
A heartfelt thanks to all our members, whose contributions, engagement, and sharing have helped make 2023 another year of meaningful impact in shaping the ASO landscape and enabling greater understanding of the Alexander Technique around the world.
Perspectives in Deciphering AT Research
The year began with a post introducing two distinct AT research articles, 'I am teaching them and they are teaching me' and 'Extending understanding of ‘care’ as an embodied phenomenon.' These paved the way for a year of varied perspectives on teaching, caring, and the intricacies of embodied experiences within the AT community.
Embodied Practices, AT, and Self-Compassion: An Interview with Lisa Harris
In February, we delved into an interview with Lisa Harris, MSc, MSTAT, exploring the impact of embodied practices, including the Alexander Technique, on self-compassion. The conversation unfolded around Lisa’s distinctive MSc thesis, titled "An Exploration of Embodied Movement Practices as a Route to Self-Compassion.”
Lighten Up! Background Research to an Interview with Rajal Cohen
March provided a sneak peek into the upcoming interview with Rajal Cohen, M.AmSAT, Ph.D., offering a glimpse into the background research related to a series of three papers on the effects of postural instructions. The focus? Individuals living with Parkinson’s and healthy older and younger adults.
Lighten Up! A Conversation with Rajal Cohen
April featured a two-part conversation with Rajal Cohen, unraveling her research on the effects of postural instructions. Cohen also introduced the new project, Posture Underground, and offered insights into the interpretation and potential misinterpretation of the term "posture."
The Curriculum Chronicles in AT Teaching
Judith Kleinman’s article in May explored the possibilities of using a curriculum as a versatile tool to support AT teaching, fostering professional development, and enriching the learning experience for students.
Soma in the City
June presented a summary of research by Korina Biggs, connecting the Alexander Technique with somatic perceptual/movement practices in challenging urban environments. The study explored the potential of digital technology to deepen the connection to one's psychophysical self and surroundings.
Why Alexander Technique Research Matters
July's blog introduced a podcast-style discussion by members of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique Research Group (SRG). The conversation peeled back the layers on the significance of researching AT, highlighting how curiosity, challenges, and practical insights could enhance personal explorations and practice.
Crossing Professional Frontiers: An Interview with Monika Gross
In the September edition, an inspiring interview with Monika Gross (The Poise Project) took center stage, revolving around enhancing communication between the Alexander Technique and diverse professional domains.
Opera and Alexander Technique
In a harmonious interplay or practice and research, October explored the unique challenges that opera places on the human voice and the fascinating connections between opera and the Alexander Technique.
Restoring Carers through the Alexander Technique
The year concluded by exploring the unexpected connections between the Alexander Technique and caregiving. Authors Charlotte Woods and Lesley Glover drew on insights from an article co-authored with dementia expert Emma Wolverson, showcasing implications for both academic research and the wider Alexander community.
Additional Links to AT Research Published in 2023
Altered Coordination Strategies in Teachers: Johnson MB, Cohen RG. Published in Frontiers in Aging, the study explored altered coordination strategies during upright stance and gait in teachers of the Alexander Technique.
Somatic Education in Piano Studies: Candisano Mera JA, Franco Vázquez C, Gillanders C. This research, published in the Journal of Bodywork & Movement Therapies, offered a snapshot of Spanish conservatoire practices integrating somatic education approaches in piano studies.
Postural Instructions and Sway in Young Adults: Cohen RG, Hocketstaller. Published in the Journal of Gait & Posture, the research investigated how postural instructions affect postural sway in young adults.
Acoustic Analysis of Alexander Technique Intervention: A Longitudinal Case. Presented at the Voice Foundation’s 52nd Annual Symposium, Capalbo, M.A. & Glasner, J.D. explored how the Alexander Technique may boost sound pressure level over time and support care of the professional voice.
To explore a more comprehensive list of AT research, visit the ASO Alexander Technique research list here.
Conclusion
As we wrap up this annual review, the journey through the diverse topics of the Alexander Technique in 2023 has been one of unexpected discoveries and connections. From the intricacies of teaching and caring to the harmonies of opera and the intersections of research, each month offered a unique lens into the profound impact the Alexander Technique can have on our lives. A heartfelt thanks from the ASO team to our members as we look forward to another year of building community and greater understanding of the Alexander Technique.