WHAT IS the Trager® Approach?
Dr. Milton Trager recognized well before contemporary knowledge on neuroplasticity that new information introduced to areas in the unconscious mind, gently and with skill, activates positive neurological changes which improve movement patterns. He referred to his work as psychophysical integration.
Trager Approach Practitioners work in a calm, cultivated, meditative state, what Dr. Trager called "hook-up." Using the language of touch and movement they promote sensory awareness and ease of movement. Trager sessions include gentle bouncing, stroking, elongations and a variety of playful body movements received in a calming, pleasurable atmosphere. Cumulative in nature, this work promotes ease, physical mobility, and a renewed lasting awareness of agelessness.
A mental, emotional and physical education, Trager sends clients into the world with the physical efficiency and coordination that leads to effortless movement. Milton Trager called this feeling a place beyond relaxation, a place of peace.
For videos of Trager masters sharing views about different aspects of the work, click here.
WHAT IS A TRAGER SESSION LIKE?
Trager sessions are designed to be both extremely pleasant and effective. The effects are both cumulative and accelerate with each visit. Sessions are generally 60-90 minutes long. Time and frequency of sessions are tailored according to clients’ particular needs.
Sessions usually include an interview, assessment, and movement. Clients wear loose clothing or can be unclothed down to their underwear. After sessions, practitioners offer individualized movement suggestions to expand upon the positive effects of the work.
Washing the Fascia
The Trager Approach can be described in many different ways. Instructor Roger Tolle offers a view on its impact on the fascial structure…
Mentastics
The second aspect of The Trager Approach, called Mentastics, involves instruction in the use of self-care movements. Mentastics is taught both in private sessions and in group classes.
Dr. Trager developed these simple, effortless movements to encourage playful exploration of “what could be freer” for your body. Integrating Mentastics into your daily life will allow you to enhance and recall feelings of ease, freedom, flexibility and joy. Mentastics can become part of the way you take care of yourself and relieve stress and tension.
Benefits of the Trager Approach
Trager has been found helpful for:
stress
limited movement
back pain
depression
multiple sclerosis
post-polio syndrome
sports and other injuries
carpal tunnel syndrome
back and neck pain
physical/emotional trauma
muscle spasms
headaches
cerebral palsy
Parkinson’s disease
fibromyalgia