Martin Underwood
Pain Coach and Alexander Technique Specialist
Biography
Meet Martin Underwood
My qualifications are MSTAT Alexander Technique Teacher, LET Trainer (Live Well With Pain), Certified Coach and Careers Adviser. I also have my specialist fields which are Alexander Technique, Pain Coaching, Stress and Lifestyle Support.
My journey into this work began through my own experience of persistent pain. Years of playing semi-professional rugby, long days as a barrister, and the fast pace of start-up businesses left me with constant pain in my back, neck and shoulders.
After trying many different approaches without success, I discovered the Alexander Technique. In my very first session, I felt a real change as the pain eased and I experienced more space, ease and calm in my body. With continued guidance, I learned how to sustain those improvements in everyday life. This inspired me to train as a practitioner so I could share these benefits with others.
Over the years I have built on this foundation by incorporating mindfulness, breathwork, hypnosis and pain coaching into my work. My approach is informed by the latest understanding of pain neuroscience and explores the connections between movement, posture, emotions and the psychological factors that influence pain.
My background as a Head of HR and career coach means I also understand how pain and stress affect people’s working lives and overall wellbeing. I now work with individuals to support recovery, help them return to work with confidence, and manage pain and stress in more sustainable ways.