Having dedicated more than 40 years to teaching the Alexander Technique, here are some key points from his biography.
Ari is the former director of The Alexander Training Institute in San Diego.
Born and raised in Jerusalem, Ari attended The Hebrew University. During his master's studies in Cultural History, his interests broadened to include Jungian and Gestalt psychology, Eastern and Western religions, as well as martial arts. A karate injury ultimately led him to the Alexander Technique, which he initially studied in Israel before completing his teacher training in San Francisco.
A major influence on Ari's distinctive style stems from more than three decades of Tai Chi practice. His deep examination of the art enabled him to extract essential elements, which he then seamlessly incorporated into his Alexander Technique instruction.
Ari and his wife, a dance instructor, collaborated for many years, leading ongoing Alexander Technique workshops for ballet and modern dancers. Ari gained a deep understanding of both the advantages and potential risks inherent in elaborate, expansive dance techniques."
Examining and comparing these two disciplines Led him to develop his unique method of teaching Combining Alexander’s guidelines with precise technique
A profound third dimension revealed itself gradually The lessons frequently stirred an inner odyssey within students, manifesting in vivid dreams and long-forgotten memories. More than one student described this inner journey as their “journey back home”. Both F.M. Alexander and Carl Jung recognized this journey as an integration of the “Self. Time and again Mr. Gil watched with amazement this process of transformation as it affected the whole person.
His extensive knowledge made him an effective teacher for diverse students and disciplines, such as:
Performing artists
Holistic Health practitioners and acupuncturists
Sports Martial Arts Yoga and Meditation
Treating Chronic physical conditions and acute injuries
Aril has taught the Alexander Technique at the dance, drama, and music departments of numerous institutions, including UCSD, SDSU, and the San Diego Symphony. He has also instructed at various dance schools, voice, and drama studios.
His expertise benefited a diverse range of practitioners, from martial artists (Tai Chi, Aikido, Karate, fencing) and yoga practitioners (Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga, Iyengar) to teaching at holistic health institutions such as Pacific College of Oriental Medicine and Mind Body College.
He also applied his expertise to sports practitioners, including runners, swimmers, golfers, and tennis players, among others.
His extensive knowledge and diverse experience allow him to effectively treat individuals with physical injuries and chronic pain, including but not limited to: back and neck problems, whiplash, joint issues, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and neuromuscular conditions.