A CELLO teacher from the Ribble Valley has qualified to teach a technique used by actors and musicians to improve poise, balance and co-ordination.

Catherine Carr, 40, of Bawdlands, Clitheroe, has qualified as a member of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique after three years full-time study in Leeds.

She is one only a handful of people in Lancashire qualified to teach the technique.

The technique was pioneered a century ago by Australian actor Frederick Matthias Alexander after his career was threatened by voice-loss.

His story is told in books on display now at Kaydee Bookshop, Moor Lane, Clitheroe.

The Alexander Technique helps people from all walks of life give attention to the way they use their bodies, either to avoid injury or become more effective, for example as performers or athletes. Catherine, who teaches at the Blackburn School of Music, said: "Many everyday problems, such as back pain or unnecessary anxiety, may be the result of the way people habitually go about things.

Other difficulties, such as those arising from illness or injury, are often prolonged or made worse by the way people unconsciously react to or compensate for them.

"Changing habits is not a matter of willpower, but of expanding awareness."

The technique is undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of people with Parkinson's Disease needing help with co-ordination and balance.

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