Event Details

The Challenge:
Globally, there is an increasing concern regarding the ongoing decline in the number of Alexander Technique teachers and training schools and that public interest in the Alexander Technique has dwindled.

As modern society continues to prioritize the use of technological resources, Alexander Technique has fallen increasingly behind in relevance and trust. The educated global citizen is technologically savvy and has high expectations of internet and social media resources, which the Alexander Technique community has not successfully provided yet.

Furthermore, when potential new students investigate Alexander Technique online, they often become confused about the Technique because of the lack of consistent messaging and seemingly amorphous teachings that are often confused with other modalities. In a modern world where technological awareness and sophistication reign supreme, how do we compete with internet noise and countless somatic options? How can any meaningful change occur if Alexander Technique communities do not learn to reconcile their differences? How do we save our work?

The Solution:
Michael Mah (Secretary-Treasurer) and Heather Campbell (President) of Alexander Technique Canada, will lead a discussion about these challenges and potential solutions to push the Alexander Technique forward as part of a global initiative. All attendees of the Congress are invited to contribute their ideas, talents, and resources as part of an international effort to establish long-term stewardship of the Alexander Technique.

The goal is to develop connections between teachers and Alexander Technique organizations, share effective strategies to reshape the public presentation of Alexander Technique, and increase its relevance in a modern world. They will also present proactive ideas by showcasing Alexander Technique Canada’s new website, marketing strategies, and community-oriented campaigns. These discussions will establish the vital connections needed to build better, more resonant global internet platforms together in a way that brings AT teachers and the profession together in a unified direction.

The Vision:

1. Survival requires that we come together, set our differences aside, and promote the strengths of each of our diverse traditions
2. The Alexander Technique profession needs to clarify its message regarding its skills and principles to distinguish it from other modalities
3. We must build public trust and credibility through the development of modern internet platforms, robust social media, and marketing strategies
4. Sharing of ideas, resources, and communication can help Alexander Technique organizations shift their priorities away from insular management and toward community engagement

A New Collective:

Following the discussion, Alexander Technique Canada will accrue a list of names and organizations that are interested in moving AT forward together. It plans on hosting an International online forum where Alexander Technique organizations and teachers can freely exchange ideas and resources to better promote themselves. Collective future goals can include engaging in:

• global marketing campaigns
• a universal Alexander Technique website resource
• the establishment of international programs in which member organizations will be able to share resources, have international student exchanges, and participate in international masterclasses, among many other potential projects.

Together, let’s move Alexander Technique into the future!