Tension & Trauma Release Exercises TRE^®

What is TRE^®

Tension & Trauma Release Exercises (or TRE^®) is a simple yet innovative series of exercises that assist the body in releasing deep muscular patterns of stress, tension and trauma. Created by Dr. David Berceli, PhD, TRE^® safely activates a natural reflex mechanism of shaking or vibrating that releases muscular tension, calming down the nervous system. When this muscular shaking/vibrating mechanism is activated in a safe and controlled environment, the body is encouraged to return to a state of balance. The amazing thing about TRE^® is that the body already knows how to do it. We don’t have to try and shake deliberately. Once the exercises are practiced, the body simply knows how to do it!

Once learnt, TRE^® is an accessible self-help tool that can build resilience, improve wellbeing and relaxation, as well as release physical tension and stress in the body whether from general daily life or from something deeper or longer term. It is reported to be effective in helping release post exercise tension; supporting people with chronic stress, physical and mental health issues; those living with the effects of trauma; and with survivors of sexual abuse as part of their treatment for PTSD. It has been widely used in workplaces around the world including the armed forces, blue light services etc to help release stress and trauma resulting from their jobs, including PTSD. It can release emotions ranging from mild upset to severe anxiety whether it is caused by work stress, excessive worry, conflict in relationships, physical stresses or traumas from accidents.

Whether you are a parent/spouse who would like more patience with your family, a victim of violence or accident, a soldier suffering with PTSD, an athlete, or simply a person who wants to become more resilient and just feel better about life, you can benefit from TRE^®. It can help people calm their nervous system, deal with the overwhelm of trauma or stress naturally. It can reduce PTSD symptoms and generally improve emotional well-being without needing to talk about or relive traumatic events. It can offer immediate and cumulative benefits; and once you feel comfortable with the tremors, usually after just a few sessions with a Certified TRE^® Provider, you can do it at home by yourself!

TRE^® can be taught by a Certified TRE^® Provider to you as an individual in a private session(s), or in a group setting. If you prefer to learn privately, or have a history of PTSD or complex trauma, it is recommended that you have one-to-one sessions.

You can read more about it here including research, articles and a short video about TRE

How does TRE^® Work?

When humans experience stress or danger, our bodies naturally want to shake (like a dog after a fight or a person trembling when cold/scared) to release built-up adrenaline and cortisol. Human beings often inhibit this innate natural shaking reflex as it is not considered socially acceptable, causing the tension to become effectively trapped in the body and nervous system. This can lead to chronic pain, anxiety, digestive issues, reduced sexual drive, PTSD and many other issues. TRE^® intentionally activates this natural, involuntary shaking in a safe, controlled way giving the body and nervous system the message that it is safe and any danger has passed.

Reported Benefits of TRE^® Include:

• Less Worry & Anxiety
• Reduces Symptoms of PTSD
• More Energy & Endurance
• Improved Relationships
• Less Workplace Stress
• Better Sleep
• Less Relationship Conflict
• Reduced Muscle & Back Pain
• Increased Flexibility
• Greater Emotional Resiliency
• Decreases Symptoms of Vicarious Trauma
• Healing of Old Injuries
• Lessened Anxiety surrounding Serious Illness
• Relief from Chronic Medical Conditions

Contraindications

TRE^® is a safe, gentle modality with few contraindications. However, it is not suitable for anyone with any of the following conditions. If you have any concerns, you should seek the advice of your GP/other medical professional and discuss this with Sophy before practising TRE^®: · Epilepsy /Seizures (of any kind) · Psychotic or borderline psychotic states · Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or a previous psychiatric condition · Recent surgery or injuries · Pregnancy · Any other medical, psychiatric or physical conditions which would impair or affect your ability to engage in gentle exercise. All participants in TRE^® take full responsibility for raising any concerns regarding the above, or any other medical history, with Sophy prior to taking part in TRE^® sessions.