Natural hand position at the keyboard

Have you thought about the position of your hands on the keyboard? Yes, there is a natural position that applies to both computer and piano? You can find it easily by dropping your arms down by your sides, so that they hang limply. In this way, the fingers will slightly curl in.

I had not been aware of this until reading a book on how Chopin wrote his Etudes to emphasise the natural hand position, and which could damage the hands if not played in the right way (Alan Kogosowski Genius of the Piano 2005). The natural position is one in which the hand forms a loose fist, with the fingers hanging easily. A google search shows that ergonomists also recommend this for computer use.

The correct hand position allows the fingers to more easily accomplish their task. While they may reach for other keys, the fingers quickly return to this natural position. For touch typists this may be easier than for others – but it is something to aim for. 

Brushing your teeth

How do you brush your teeth? Probably you use more tension than necessary. Observe yourself, accept any tension for a moment - and then ask for release. How easily can you let go?

It's a great way to get a sense of what Alexander Technique offers. Being mindful twice a day, when in the bathroom, is a really good preparation for our lifelong journey of staying freely upright.

Aha, so that's how you apply Alexander Technique – a testimonial

This testimonial is from Mary, pathology worker. It illustrates the self-help that Alexander Technique offers with support from a teacher. She explains her approach to reinforcing new habits.

"I have been having ongoing spasms and pain in my neck, shoulders and upper back for the last year with regular visits to physio and follow up stretching and exercises only giving temporary relief. In frustration I came to the realisation that I needed a different approach. I had been introduced to Alexander Technique many years ago in a pain management program after a diagnosis of fibromyalgia (see definition below). I remembered that it was helpful and very gentle.

Slumping and your ribs at work

Here is the second post that relates to slumping as we sit. In October 2013, we explored how to gently lengthen between the pubic bone and the lower ribs, and up to the head.

Now we are looking at the ribs, and how they are involved in lengthening and widening the body.