I have had a private practice in the Alexander Technique in Berkeley since receiving my STAT and AmSAT Certification 1987, and am an Associate Professor of the Alexander Technique at the California Jazz Conservatory.
I attended the Center for the Alexander Technique in Menlo Park, CA, with Ed and Linda Avak, who trained with Walter Carrington in London, England. I trained teachers at the Bay Area Center for the Alexander Technique, during its existence from 2011 until 2008.
I am a professional pianist, and, after receiving my BA in Music, was spending many hours at the piano, playing and teaching. I discovered the Alexander Technique while looking for a way to eliminate the severe back pain that I was experiencing at that time. As I took lessons and gained understanding of my own use, I was intrigued by the changes in myself that were taking place. Not only did my back pain gradually subside, but I found myself feeling more composed and confident at the piano, and less affected by the annoyances and stresses of everyday life. I was so inspired by the power of this work that I decided to train to become an Alexander teacher.
I’ve taught the Alexander Technique to teachers, scientists, software professionals, writers, retirees, librarians, dancers, dental hygienists, chefs, doctors, waiters, artists, and massage therapists, among others. My students are of diverse ages, from middle-schoolers to seniors. They take lessons for varying reasons, but all find the Alexander Technique helpful to them in many aspects of their lives. Here’s what they say about their lessons:
” Studying the Alexander Technique has been really beneficial for me. I have learned many things that have helped make my life more rewarding, productive and energy-efficient. Every one of my lessons has been so rich in useful ideas, techniques and nuggets of wisdom that I am confident that my relationship with the Alexander Technique will be an ongoing education process with endless rewards…I have learned innumerable tools that have helped me lead a more enjoyable, pain-free and effortless life, while still being a very busy and active 21-year-old Berkeley student..“
– Matt, college student“About two years ago I began studying with Laura to help improve my singing voice and also to alleviate my chronic neck pain. I really enjoy the process, and especially Laura’s teaching style, which is warm, focused and creative. The Alexander Technique has improved my posture, my voice and best of all, I’ve noticed a marked decrease in my neck pain. Even though I’d had a lot of movement training in the past, this work is completely different from anything I’d done before. The awareness of correct body use permeates many parts of my life, including my work as a communications coach. I’m very grateful that Laura was recommended to me.“
– Carol Hazenfield, author of Acting on Impulse: The Art of Making Improv Theater“Through my lessons with Laura specific problems with my neck, shoulders and back have improved beyond what my former chiropractor could achieve. My movements are more fluid both in daily activities and in my tai chi class. Laura has taught me valuable skills in self-observation, which paradoxically bring frustration at times, but also better coordination and circulation in easing up on myself.“
– Glenn, Structural Engineer and Tai Chi Practitioner“A session with Laura Klein embodies the essence of the Alexander Technique. In Laura’s presence you feel relaxed and rejuvenated, your body integrated with your mind and spirit. How we hold our body is connected with how we hold tension or relaxation in our mind, which affects… our outlook on life. Do we react with stress, or do we interact with serenity? The awareness of how we move our body will impact how we move through life. After spending time with Laura, I can fully experience the challenge of life with clarity,courage, and compassion.“
– Joan Hu, UCSF employee“No matter what was going in my life, I always felt better after lessons (with Laura). Besides providing relief from my discomforts, my lessons have made me a firm believer in the Alexander Technique, something which I’m sure will stay with me for the rest of my life.“
– Gabriel Wong, graduate student, conductor, singer
The process of learning the Alexander Technique is a journey of self-discovery. As a teacher, I work together with my students in how to apply the Alexander Technique in everyday life, enabling them to solve their problems.
To set up an appointment or for more information, please email me or call (510) 845‑6619.