Ayumi Matsuda
Ayumi Matsuda (41) is born in Japan, Tokyo and in 1996 Ayumi moved to The Netherlands. Ayumi is an Alexander Technique teacher. She also started to play the recorder at the age of seven and for years Aymi has been teaching the recorder at the Music Academy of the International School of Amsterdam. Since 2004 she teaches the Alexander Technique to musicians, dansers and other artists in Amsterdam.
What is Alexander technique?
The Alexander Technique is a skill for self-development teaching you to change long-standing habits that cause unnecessary tension in everything you do.
Can you give examples of what you and the clients do during Alexander technique sessions?
Your teacher will guide you through simple movements and everyday activities such as sitting, standing, walking or bending, communicating through skillful hands-on guidance and verbal explanations. Part of the lesson may include lying down in the classic Alexander Technique semi-supine position which allows maximum support for the back to relax and expand. Also, it depends on what you do in your daily life such as musicians or dancers or office workers.
What made you decide to make Alexander technique your profession?
It gave me freedom for my body and for my breathing and my performance gets easier on stages.
Do you own a studio?
I teach mostly in Amsterdam. I rent a space in the Maarten Luther Kerk and I teach at the International School of Amsterdam. And regularly I participate as a teacher in The Summer Conference by Kushi Institute in Amsterdam.
Did you solve your own body issues or do you keep them under control with Alexander technique?
Yes, I try to be aware as much as possible what my old habits are.
How many lessons or treatments do you teach/give each week?
Three days a week. The rest of days, I am teaching as well. It is more based on music.
What is your opinion about the future of Alexander technique?
It is important to introduce at a young age. Youngsters spent more time in front of the computer unfortunately.
What is the biggest insight Alexander technique gave you?
I try to be aware as much as possible what my old habits are and to be open to myself and to others!
Who is your biggest example and who would you love to meet in the Alexander technique field?
Elisabeth Walker (from Oxford). She died recently at age of 98. She was giving lessons till last moment. My memory of her was that she was standing next a red sports car waiting for me!
What is your Alexander technique dream?
I would like to live each moment being with myself till the last moment. Alexander Technique will support me to do so.
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