Raymond Dart (1893-1988), a palaeoanthropologist and prominent player in the development of modern anthropology articulated what he called the human Double Spiral musculature.  In Alexander Technique hands-on teaching, there is an opportunity to tune into and follow various spiralling pathways.  With a collaboratively created developmental movement pattern recognition system, the Framework for Integration (FFI), AT practitioners can decode what is called the Engagement and Resetting of Spirals to understand better what we are often doing as Alexander Technique teachers. The Framework explores, deciphers, and passes on the work of Joan and Alex Murray to those who have not had the opportunity to have directly trained with them.
In this workshop, participants will:

1. Learn to recognize the pathways from the head and neck through the trunk and limbs through specific ‘lenses’ including Dart and Thomas Myers’ myofascial work.
2. Use straps and elastics to demonstrate spiral pathways and their impacts on our capacity for movement and support.
3. Explore spirals by moving them on the floor, using four distinct possibilities directed through vocal/aural, visual, or tactile stimuli.
4. Investigate hands-on work in a way that supports antagonistic action that either increases support or releases via the spiral system.
5. Apply concepts to work done with a chair and/or table.
6. Apply concepts to activities such as walking, running, swimming, golfing, playing tennis, football, etc.

Throughout, the goal is to support what teachers are already doing and open possibilities for additional ways to use our hands. The workshop is open to all trainees and teachers.  No previous knowledge of the Dart Procedures or the Framework for Integration is necessary.  Please come with comfortable clothes ready to roll on the floor.