"Let my neck be free, to allow my head to go forward and up and my back to lengthen and widen."

We are all born and spend much of our adolescence with the core values of the Alexander Technique embedded in our everyday life. Unfortunately, as we get older and bad habits emerge, we lose this instinctively vital knowledge of how to use our bodies effectively. Using this simple phrase can really help to remind our bodies how to 'be'.

The Alexander Technique has been part of my life for the past 9 years: I have weekly lessons with Michelle Holdaway, and I'm often asked what AT is and why I've been doing it for so long! Many people go for 6-8 lessons and leave it there. I soon realised that AT was exactly what I needed long-term to make the most of a busy job and even busier social life. It helps my body and my brain in equal measure. My posture was dodgy, after years of carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder and being slumped over a desk, and I was surviving on adrenaline - disguised as enthusiasm! With Michelle's insight, I was able to notice the habits that had built up over years of misuse, and most importantly, was guided through how to change them in a sustainable way.

I continue to go weekly because I notice immediate benefits and, simply, because I love it!

This week, I've been thinking about how careful we are about choosing and using words. In my work, often the smallest change in words can really make a difference. Here is one that makes so much difference: try saying "and" instead of "but". 'But' can often sound negative and is used as a conjunction word in a sentence when 'and' would do just as well - and could sound more positive.

Have you noticed how much you might be saying the word 'but', when the word 'and' would work just as well, if not better? Try it out and see.

Such a small word, and such a big difference!

Welcome to Clean Well-Being! What you can expect from my posts:
- They will be weekly
- They will be short
- They might help you think a bit more about your life, your choices and your well-being

I won't faff around and I will get straight to the point! Let me know what you think, if you're so inclined. Or if you're happy just to read, you're very welcome.