Peter Barker

I worked as a bricklayer for 25 years and as a result I suffered regular pain with my neck, lower back and hip. I tried many different things to ease the pain but nothing gave me any lasting relief. When consulting a physiotherapist, he suggested that my problems were related to posture and so he recommended trying the Alexander Technique.

I accessed a teacher and after a few lessons, I began to feel the benefits. During these initial lessons, I realised that it was my habits that were causing the problems. Learning to be aware of these habits and stopping them with the teacher's help became the road towards my recovery from pain and discomfort. With a new awareness, I applied the technique to my work and found it to be much more enjoyable. I discovered a new sense of ease as I worked because I paid attention to how I used myself.

Work in the building trade became scarce so this turned into an opportunity to pursue my interest in the Alexander Technique. I was accepted on a full time teacher training course in Galway Alexander Technique Centre and during my three years there, I learned how the technique can be applied to many ways of life.

Now, as a qualified teacher, I assist both individuals and groups to become more aware of their use in activity so they can enjoy, and benefit from, the Alexander Technique as much as I do. My nephew, who is a top performing athlete, recently suffered a slipped disc and two ruptured discs in his lower back. Having refused a suggested operation, he turned to the Alexander Technique. After numerous lessons, he is now back performing at a high level again. He credits the Alexander Technique for making a full recovery, free of pain.