Trauma is a deeply painful and distressing experience that can have severe consequences for a person's quality of life if left unaddressed. It can occur in various forms, such as physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, or sexual assault, and can make it challenging to navigate the world and create meaningful relationships.
However, there are ways to heal from trauma, and one such method is through trauma releasing exercises.
What Are Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE)?
Trauma releasing exercises (TRE) were developed by Dr David Berceli, a trauma therapist, and are designed to activate the body's natural healing mechanisms. The exercises are intended to help individuals release tension, stress, and anxiety stored in their bodies as a result of past trauma. They are simple, easy to learn, and can be done by anyone, regardless of their level of physical fitness or age.
How Do Trauma Releasing Exercises Work?
TRE consists of a series of exercises that focus on releasing the tension stored in the body. The exercises work by activating the body's natural shaking response, which helps to release physical and emotional tension. When the body experiences stress or trauma, it responds by tensing up, which can lead to physical and emotional blockages. By activating the shaking response, TRE helps to release these blockages and restore balance to the body.
The TRE exercises are designed to be gentle and safe, allowing individuals to release tension gradually. They can be done alone or with the help of a certified TRE practitioner who can guide individuals through the exercises and provide support throughout the process.
Benefits of Trauma Releasing Exercises
TRE has been found to be effective in reducing the symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and stress. It has also been shown to improve sleep quality, enhance emotional regulation, and increase resilience. Additionally, TRE can help individuals connect with their bodies and emotions in a safe and supportive way, which can be empowering and healing.
Who Can Benefit from Trauma Releasing Exercises?
TRE can be beneficial for anyone who has experienced trauma, including individuals who have experienced physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or sexual assault. It can also be helpful for individuals who experience chronic stress, anxiety, or PTSD. TRE is safe and non-invasive, making it a viable option for individuals who may not be able to access traditional forms of therapy.
Getting Started with Trauma Releasing Exercises
If you are interested in trying TRE, there are several resources available online that can help you get started. You can find instructional videos and written guides that provide step-by-step instructions for the exercises. However, it is recommended that individuals seek the guidance of a certified TRE practitioner, especially if they have a history of trauma.
How Trauma Affects Posture
When an individual experiences trauma, the body responds by releasing stress hormones, which can cause physical changes in the body. The body's natural response to trauma is to protect itself, often by tensing up or contracting muscles. This tension can lead to changes in posture, which can become habitual over time.
For example, an individual who experiences physical abuse may develop a hunched posture to protect themselves from further harm. This posture may become ingrained over time, even after the trauma has ended, leading to chronic pain and tension in the body. Similarly, an individual who experiences emotional abuse may develop a closed-off posture, such as crossed arms or a hunched back, as a way to protect themselves from further emotional harm.
The Relationship Between Posture and Emotional State
The way an individual holds their body can also have an impact on their emotional state. Studies have found that individuals who maintain a more open and upright posture experience less stress and anxiety than those who hold a closed or slumped posture. An open posture can also increase feelings of confidence and self-esteem, while a closed posture can lead to feelings of insecurity and low self-worth.
Addressing Trauma through Posture
Addressing trauma through posture can be a valuable tool in the healing process. By becoming aware of how their body holds tension and changing habitual patterns of movement, individuals can release physical and emotional tension stored in the body.
There are several techniques that individuals can use to address trauma through posture, including:
-
Mindful Movement: Mindful movement practices, such as yoga or tai chi, can help individuals become more aware of their body's habitual patterns of tension and release that tension through gentle movement.
-
Bodywork: Bodywork therapies, such as massage or myofascial release, can help to release tension and restore balance to the body.
-
Therapy: Working with a trauma-informed therapist can help individuals become more aware of how their trauma has affected their body and develop strategies to release tension and restore balance.
Conclusion
Trauma releasing exercises are a valuable tool for individuals who have experienced trauma or chronic stress. They provide a safe and gentle way to release tension stored in the body, restore balance, and promote healing. By connecting with the body's natural healing mechanisms, individuals can regain control over their emotional and mental well-being and find a path to recovery.
