Trager Haikus by Kathryn Hansman-Spice

Written by: Kathryn Hansman-Spice

In February 2001, there was a special class with Betty Fuller, called Being With Betty. She was struggling with her ability to express her thoughts, so we gathered to just be with Betty to learn from her. As I listened to her and class discussions, I captured the essence of her ideas. Later, I read them to her. It was moving for both of us. I have them typed up in a booklet but I can’t find a copy in my online files. So I will type a some of my favorites below: (5 syllables, 7, 5)

Soft personified

In loving, attentive touch

Betty’s legacy.


Being touched by love

The true essence of Trager

Dwells deep in the soul.


I am holy blessed

I go where dear Milton is

Incredibly soft.


Unknown linkages

Drawn into the Trager fold

By unseen forces.


Becoming spirit

Softening of barriers

It is what we are!


Touching interface

Palpating the boundary

Between you and I.


Fully in the now

Let the tissue come to you

True effortlessness.


My state of being

Paints a picture on your soul

I prefer pleasure.


The gift of presence

The depth of safety and trust

Felt deep in my core.


Touching my belly

Surface softness, deep terrain

Mysterious connections.


Trager is a gift

A way of seeing, be-ing

Principles of life.


May I serve myself

As well as I serve others

Life reassessment.