TRE™

A somatic practice that activates the body's natural tremor mechanism to release deep muscular tension and restore calm.

TRE™ (Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercises) is a series of simple exercises that help the body release deep muscular patterns of stress, tension, and trauma. Developed by Dr David Berceli, TRE™ safely activates a natural reflex mechanism of shaking or vibrating that releases muscular tension, calming down the nervous system.

How TRE™ works

When practised in a safe and controlled environment, TRE™ activates the body's natural tremor mechanism. These neurogenic tremors originate deep in the core of the body from the psoas muscles, releasing stored tension from the muscles and fascia.

The tremors are a natural, involuntary response that helps discharge excess energy from the autonomic nervous system. This process can help:

  • Release chronic muscular tension
  • Reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety
  • Improve sleep quality
  • Increase flexibility and range of motion
  • Enhance overall sense of calm and wellbeing

What to expect in a session

A typical TRE™ session begins with a series of simple exercises designed to gently fatigue the leg muscles. Once lying down, the body naturally begins to tremor, starting from the legs and often spreading throughout the body.

Sessions are facilitated in a safe, supportive environment where you can learn to regulate the intensity of the tremoring. Over time, you'll develop the skills to practice TRE™ independently at home.

What does it feel like?

Everyone's experience is different, but there are common patterns. The tremoring usually begins in the legs as a gentle vibration or shaking. For some people it stays there; for others it spreads into the hips, belly, chest, or even the jaw and hands.

The sensations can range from subtle buzzing or warmth to more vigorous shaking. You might feel waves of heat moving through your body, involuntary stretching or rocking, or a deep sense of release in your lower back and hips. Some people laugh, yawn, or feel a swell of emotion as tension lets go. Others simply feel a pleasant heaviness, like the body is finally putting something down.

Afterwards, most people describe feeling deeply calm, grounded, and physically lighter. It's common to sleep particularly well that night. If you don't feel much in your first session, that's completely normal too. The body opens at its own pace.

Who can benefit

TRE™ is suitable for most people and doesn't require any special physical abilities. It can be particularly helpful for those experiencing chronic stress or burnout, people recovering from trauma, those living with chronic pain, or anyone dealing with anxiety. It's also popular with athletes and performers seeking better recovery, and anyone wanting to develop a deeper connection with their body.

Note: TRE™ is not recommended during pregnancy or for those with certain medical conditions. Please consult with a qualified provider before beginning.

Experience TRE™ in a workshop

Ready to try TRE™ for yourself? Our TRE™ & Breathwork workshop combines TRE™ with Conscious Connected Breathwork for a deeply releasing experience. View upcoming dates and book your place.

Learn more

For more information about TRE™, visit tre.guide.

Frequently asked questions

What does TRE™ stand for?
TRE™ stands for Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercises. It was developed by Dr David Berceli as a series of simple exercises that activate the body's natural tremor mechanism.
Is TRE™ safe?
Yes, TRE™ is generally safe for most people. The tremors are a natural neurogenic response that the body uses to release tension. However, it's not recommended during pregnancy or for those with certain medical conditions. Please consult with a qualified provider if you have concerns.
Do I need any experience to try TRE™?
No prior experience is needed. TRE™ is accessible to people of all fitness levels and doesn't require any special physical abilities. Our facilitators guide you through each step.
Will I lose control during the tremoring?
No. While the tremors are involuntary, you remain in full control throughout the process. You can slow down, pause, or stop the tremoring at any time simply by straightening your legs or changing position.
How often should I practice TRE™?
For beginners, we recommend practicing once or twice a week with sessions of 15-20 minutes. As you become more experienced, you can adjust the frequency based on your body's needs. Your facilitator will help you develop a sustainable practice.
Can I practice TRE™ at home?
Yes, once you've learned the exercises with a certified provider, TRE™ is designed to be a self-help tool you can use independently at home. We recommend attending a few facilitated sessions first to learn proper technique and self-regulation.
How is TRE™ different from yoga or stretching?
Yoga and stretching work with voluntary movement to lengthen muscles. TRE™ activates an involuntary tremor mechanism that originates deep in the core, releasing tension at a neuromuscular level that conscious stretching can't reach. You don't need to "do" anything once the tremoring starts; the body leads the process.
Is it normal to shake a lot during TRE™?
Yes. Some people experience gentle vibrations while others have more vigorous shaking, and both are completely normal. The intensity often varies from session to session. You can always regulate the tremoring by adjusting your leg position, and your facilitator will guide you in finding the right level for your body.
What if I don't feel anything?
This is more common than you might think, especially in a first session. The body opens at its own pace, and a subtle experience is not a lesser one. Many people who feel little during the session notice shifts afterwards, such as deeper sleep, reduced tension, or feeling more settled. Trust the process and give it a few sessions.

Practitioners

Gianluca Campanella

Gianluca Campanella

Certified TRE™ Provider