TRE is a profound self-help process that activates the body’s innate tremor mechanism.  It is through the body that we can have a powerful influence on calming our nervous system, and enabling a gentle release of chronic tension, stress or trauma (including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). 

To initiate this involuntary tremor, I will guide you through a series of simple exercises that are designed to fatigue the core muscles that store tension.  Exercises are easily adapted to your specific ability, so most people can learn this safely. 

You are able to stop the tremors whenever you choose. At all times you will be safely supported to learn how to regulate your experience without feeling discomfort or overwhelm.

TRE does not require talking about, or recalling past events. This is a body based approach; one that will enhance any psychological support you may be receiving. Once learnt, TRE is your aid to releasing the accumulated stresses of daily life or unresolved trauma on an ongoing basis.

• Less anxiety and unresolved trauma

• Deeper physical relaxation

• More restful sleep

• Less physical pain

• Increased flexibility

• Enhanced sports recovery

• Enhanced meditation/mindfulness

• Improved relationships

• Enhanced wellbeing

• Less susceptible to occupational stress and vicarious trauma

All traumas affect the physical body, causing muscle contractions and the release of stress hormones. Fight/flight/freeze reactions are normal defence responses automatically triggered at time of threat.

Just as we have this innate protective response, our nervous system is also designed to ‘discharge’ these stress hormones and shake out deep muscle tension, so helping the body return to a more relaxed, resilient state.

Healing of trauma begins in the body.  Involuntary shakes (neurogenic tremors) are often felt after a severe shock or fright, or when extremely nervous, excited or angry.

Understanding how the tremors assist in our recovery will encourage us to allow this natural healing process. If our body does not fully release the chemical charge and muscle tension, we remain in a state of hyper-vigilance, as if the threat is still present. This can result in cycles of anxiety, edginess, physical discomfort, intense emotional reactivity, or withdrawal from social engagement.

Through the ongoing use of TRE we can experience a more grounded presence in the face of daily stresses, as we begin to operate from a calmer base. We help ourselves evolve, become stronger and have greater resilience to trauma if we are able to integrate experiences and release the defensive energy.

By supporting our own body physiology to release tension, we are able to have a profound and lasting effect on calming our nervous system.

Dr. David Berceli PhD originally developed ‘Trauma Release Exercises’ as a self-empowering trauma recovery process for large populations in the third world. He is an international expert in the areas of trauma intervention and conflict resolution and has provided trauma recovery assistance to individuals, US military personnel, staff at international and national relief agencies, and many people who live and work in trauma inducing environments.