Trager Training, a different kind of continuing education model.

When I began my journey in learning somatic approaches, it was because I was in pain and I needed help with how I was using my body. My years of dancing training did not connect me to the way I was moving as it could have. I knew I was doing "something" that was creating more tension than necessary, but I didn't know how to change it. Now, after over 20 years of this practice, I may catch myself hunching my shoulders still, but I don't stay there. I change the pattern more quickly and I laugh at myself when I do it, instead of getting upset with myself. "It's just a silly pattern", I tell myself and I move on.                           

When changing patterns of tension (as many bodyworkers experience in themselves), we must first notice the tension patterns in ourselves. Once we notice that, we can begin to un-learn and let go of the grip it has on us. One way we do that is to focus our attention on new ways of moving, feeling and approaching that pattern in a way that is different than what we are used to. This takes repetition, lots of repetition! Lots of small changes over time are more effective than spending a longer block of time trying to force a change. Little, consistent reminders that I can bring my attention to that tip the scales away from the tension pattern. 

Repetition is a key component in any learning process, and the Trager training is an exceptional training that keeps this concept of repetition with specific intention at the forefront of it's focus.  It is an extensive program of self development, awakening of self and building career longevity.  Learning it has saved my bodywork career, increased the joy in my work, erased my pain and helped me feel confident in my sessions. I would not be doing what I am doing now without it. 

The training has 3 levels plus other classes mixed in, along with practice sessions so that you can integrate the information and develop your skills. There is a reason why the training is so extensive. It needs to be. Would you go to a karate class for one weekend and expect to be a black belt after 2 days? There is just too much that needs to be developed, and practiced, un-learned and understood.

When helping a client develop their awareness, it starts with our own exploration of our own patterns (or our way of moving), so that we bring our own awareness to be able to help them. We want to discover the fine details of how we hold ourselves, where does our effort come from, how does that effort translate through our body, and how is it received by the client?

During the training, we take the time to explore our own patterns through Mentastics. Milton Trager used this term from combining mental & gymnastics. Mind focused movement. This practice builds self awareness. Then we learn "moves". We move a client's body in such a way, that they build awareness around a new feeling quality. For example, if a client has stiffness in their upper traps and the shoulder barely moves, I will slow down my movement and move from an efficient body to invite softness and letting go. It really is tricky to describe, and much easier to understand when felt. And that is the essence of feeling in our body and not just understanding it from an analytical perspective. It's not about the moves, the moves help us to apply the principles. You may just need to come to a training (or a session!) to experience this! 

I encourage you to look further into the Trager training. I will be teaching a level 1 at the end of Feb. It is a 6 day training and we will be breaking it up into 2 / 3-day weekends. The Level 1 can be a stand alone class. You do not have to move onto Level 2, but you certainly can if you feel so inspired! You will gain many insights to new ways of working with clients and your own approach to how you can work with more ease. Once you've had the chance to practice and experiment, you'll have a better understanding of the power of a somatic approach.
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I highly recommend starting with my Intro. It will give you a solid foundation for the longer training. It also offers you the opportunity to practice the approach and see how your clients respond! My next Intro is Nov 16.
​Click on WORKSHOPS below for more info.

*Please note: Since I teach Somatic Principles workshops, either or all of these can serve as a pre-requisite for Level 1. There is an application process for this workshop. You will also receive membership in the USTA (United States Trager Association) for 2 years as part of your Level 1 participation. Receiving sessions is also accepted before entering the training. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Workshops

  Information about the curriculum of the classes needed to become a Certified Trager Practitioner here: 
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https://www.trager.com/curriculum-content