Tension and Trauma Release Exercises®

Tension and Trauma Release Exercises®

Innovative exercises to release trauma, stress and tension from the body

How can Tension & Trauma Release Exercises nourish you? 

Tension and Trauma Release Exercises, or TRE®, is an innovative therapy that uses simple exercises to assist in releasing stress, tension and trauma[1] from the body. TRE® is based on the premise that stress, tension and trauma is both physiological and psychological.[2] Using a series of seven exercises,[3] TRE® therapy deliberately invokes the body’s innate tremor mechanisms to release deep tension or stress, thereby calming down the nervous system[4] and restoring homeostasis in the body. 

TRE® was first developed by expert trauma therapist Dr David Bercelli, PhD,[5] as a result of his ongoing experience working with mass trauma[6] in many war-torn countries. Dr Bercelli’s techniques have since been used in trauma recovery and conflict resolution programs by many international organisations. Today, TRE® boasts a global footprint[7] and is currently practiced in over 60 countries around the world. 

In Australia, Certified TRE® Providers may teach TRE® professionally after completing the Australian Global Certification Training Program (GCTP).[8] This provides an internationally recognised qualification. Importantly, for practitioners with additional qualifications, the GCTP allows the use of TRE® to support existing treatment modalities. 

Benefits of Tension & Trauma Release Exercises

The benefits of TRE® may be experienced by any individual who is dealing with trauma, stress or tension, as well as by those who simply want to become more resilient and improve their quality of life. 

Evidence from a case study suggests TRE® may assist individuals who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder[9] (PTSD). Further, it appears to be an accepted preventative wellbeing practice for military and veteran populations in countries such as the United States, Switzerland and Norway. One advantage is that it does not require a patient to relive or discuss their past experiences. There are currently ongoing clinical[10] studies assessing the efficacy of TRE® as an adjunct treatment for PTSD and stress.

The techniques used in TRE® can also be performed unsupervised, and in a recent intervention study it was shown that self-induced therapeutic tremors[11] may offer improvements for overall quality of life. 

TRE® may assist in relieving symptoms related to:

Anxiety Back pain Energy and vitality Insomnia and sleep disorders Love and Relationships Mobility and movement Mood imbalances Muscle spasm, tightness and cramps PTSD and trauma

What to expect from a Tension & Trauma Release Exercise session 

TRE® can be taught by a Certified TRE® Provider to you as an individual or in a group setting.[12] If you have experienced deep trauma, you may prefer a private environment.

A series of seven exercises[13] will be followed during your TRE® session. These are performed in a safe and controlled way to activate your body’s natural muscular shaking/vibration mechanisms. This allows the muscles to break up the tension blockages and enhances the uninhibited flow of energy through the body. 

Since these exercises relax the muscles, it is not unusual for buried emotions to surface during this experience. ‘Self-regulation’[14] is an integral component of this therapy. These are the tools that will help you to experience tremors from a place of safety and come in and out of the TRE® process as needed. 

Once you have learnt the exercises, they can be used as and when needed. TRE® may therefore provide ongoing support to promote your personal well-being throughout your life. It is recommended that TRE® be used consistently for sustained benefit over time.

In some cases, Certified TRE® Providers will integrate TRE® with other treatment modalities as a complementary technique to other therapies. 

As with any exercise or wellness program, please consult your medical professional before commencing TRE®. The TRE® process should not substitute the medical, psychological or psychiatric treatment you receive. If you suffer from any physical or psychological condition it is important to discuss this with a Certified TRE® provider prior to performing these exercises.  

References

  1. Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercises | traumaprevention.com
  2. 4 Sets of Somatic Mindfulness Exercises for People Who Have Experienced Trauma | psychcentral.com
  3. Tension, Stress & Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE®) l auyantitude.com
  4. About TRE | trecanada.ca
  5. About Dr. Berceli | traumaprevention.com
  6. Case Report of a Former Soldier Using TRE (Tension/Trauma Releasing Exercises) For PostTraumatic Stress Disorder Self-Care | Journal of Military and Veterans' Health
  7. TRE Australia | treaustralia.com
  8. TRE Certification Training | treaustralia.com
  9. Case Report of a Former Soldier Using TRE (Tension/Trauma Releasing Exercises) For PostTraumatic Stress Disorder Self-Care | Journal of Military and Veterans' Health
  10. Neurogenic Tremors Training (TRE) for Stress and PTSD | traumaprevention.com
  11. Effects of Self-induced Unclassified Therapeutic Tremors on Quality of Life Among Non-professional Caregivers | Global Advances in Health and Medicine
  12. What is TRE® | traumaprevention.com
  13. Neurogenic Tremor1 Through TRE Tension, Stress and Trauma Releasing Exercises According To D. BERCELI In The Treatment Of PTSD | traumaprevention.com
  14. TRE® Self-Regulation | traumaprevention.com

Frequently asked questions

TRE is a set of exercises designed to release tension and stress stored in the body due to trauma or everyday life. The exercises involve a series of simple movements that induce a natural shaking or tremoring response, allowing the body to release stored tension.

Yes, TRE is suitable for individuals of various backgrounds, and it can be beneficial for releasing everyday stress and tension. While initially developed to address trauma, many people find TRE helpful for overall relaxation and well-being.

While the basic TRE exercises can be learned and practiced independently, some individuals prefer learning from a certified TRE provider, especially if they have a history of trauma. Proper guidance ensures correct execution and emotional safety.

The shaking or tremoring response, known as neurogenic tremors, is a natural and therapeutic process that helps release muscular tension and accumulated stress. It allows the body to discharge energy stored during stressful or traumatic experiences.

In general, TRE is safe for most people. However, individuals with certain medical conditions or severe trauma histories should consult with a healthcare professional before starting TRE. It's also advisable to practice under the guidance of a certified TRE provider.

The benefits of TRE can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience immediate relief, while others may notice gradual improvements over time. Consistent practice and patience are key to unlocking the full benefits of TRE.
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