Some people are consistently able to perform better.
They are less prone to getting “psyched out” or thrown off their game. They just seem to be altogether better coordinated.
A popular writer, Malcolm Gladwell, describes this ability as “physical genius”.
What truly separates these top performers is their ability to overcome the perfomance-robbing effects of fear.
What are these effects? Picture a frightened cat.
The neck tightens, the head retracts, the spine shortens and the limbs contract into the torso.
Unfortunately, this description also applies to the usual posture of many people. Even when supposedly relaxing, they are suffering from the effects of chronic stress.
The more importance we place on achieving a certain outcome, the more we can be hindered by fear of failure.
Teachers of the Alexander Technique have a means of addressing this dilemna. Their skilled hands are trained in the release of tension.
Once the physical tension is gone, so is the worry, the equivalent mental state.
Alexander Technique is used by many actors, musicians and athletes, as well as people from all walks of life who desire a reduction in stress or improved performance.
