The TRAGER® Approach
Developed
in the latter half of the twentieth century by Dr. Milton Trager (1908-1997),
the underlying philosophy behind the TRAGER Approach rests upon the theory that
in order for the body to become liberated and tension-free, it must first learn
to experience effortless and easy movements. Stemming from this belief, the
TRAGER Approach is a bodywork technique which involves gentle rocking, cradling,
jiggling and lengthening of the body, which releases deep-rooted physical and
psychological tensions and promotes relaxation, increased flexibility and
alertness.
TRAGER
work is based on the premise that discomfort, pain, and reduced functionality
are physical symptoms of accumulated tension resulting from accidents, weak
posture, fear, emotional blockages, and daily stress.
The
TRAGER Approach uses the natural rhythm of the body’s weight and structure to
help rediscover ease, comfort, fluidity of movement and freedom from
restriction. TRAGER work does not
cause pain. The method is
invitational, teaching by positive experience; searching out comfort, affirming
existing abilities, initiating the development of improvements in function and
an increased potential for health and well-being.
Results can be transformative, the benefits long-lasting.
TRAGER
is an educational model as well. Part
of the session can include explorations in movement to find what is comfortable,
easy and freeing. Clients are
encouraged to utilize these movements for self care reinforcing the sensory
experience of comfort and ease.
In
a TRAGER session, the client rests on a padded table and the practitioner moves
the client’s body in such a way that the person actually experiences the
possibility of being able to move that freely effortlessly and gracefully on
their own.
Recall is another component of this work. Recall is learning how to remember the pleasurable sensations and feelings you had during the tablework, an exercise designed to promote relaxation. You can use recall when you are out in the world. Remembering the feelings you experience during a TRAGER session, allows your nervous system to become quieter. Your body responds by slowing your breathing and your heart rate ~ and you feel better!
Thanks
to Nadine Feldman for this information. For more information on Nadine and
other practitioners, go to World Directory of Holistic Practitioners