Keep the Change, A Reflection by Corrie Danieley
As I reflect over 2013, I am extremely thankful I had the principles of The Alexander Technique to help me transition through change. I experienced many changes this year: moving from South Carolina to Northern Kentucky, starting a new job, making new friends, and the unexpected loss of my Dad.
It can be quite scary to leave a place of familiarity, be it physical or emotional, and step out into the next phase. One of the foundational Alexander Technique lessons I was so often reminded of throughout 2013 was that I always had a choice in how I responded to my surroundings and my situation. During the process of all of these changes in my life, I often found myself short of breath, tightening my jaw, and pulling down into my center. Each time I became aware of what was happening, I was relieved to remember I didn’t have to stay in that place or if I really wanted to I could stay there for a bit longer. I had options. Simply having the choice was incredibly empowering and brought a sense of peace.
This experience also informed my teaching this year. I was a little more patient. I was a little more empathetic. I was a little more present. As I move into the future, I want to hold on to this memorable experience and at the same time I also understand that this will be a lesson I’m sure I will relearn and revisit from time to time.
All in all, I had a great year of growth, courage, expansion, and breath. I’m happy to be a new member of the ATGO community and I look forward to meeting more of my Alexander friends in the near future.
Along with being a Teaching Member of Alexander Technique International, Corrie Danieley also teaches Acting, Voice, and Movement in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Northern Kentucky University.