The Trager Method

What is The Trager Method

The Trager Method is a type of massage that incorporates shaking, rocking, vibration and stretching to relax the body and release blocks in the mind that are the root cause of the tension. The belief of the Trager Method is that physical pain and dysfunction begin in the mind. As these blocks release, the body is able to move freely and pain disappears. By using Trager techniques and intuitive awareness, the practitioner enters a meditative state and is able to communicate with the client’s subconscious mind to reeducate the nervous system into more relaxed, pain-free patterns.

Clients are also given homework exercises called Mentastics. These are simple dance like movements that involve gentle rocking, shaking and stretching to encourage the body to maintain its new state of relaxation.

History of The Trager Method

The Trager Method was developed by Milton Trager, MD. At age 18 he began to recognize that he had unique skills as a bodyworker and over the next 30 years he developed the Trager Method and founded the Trager Institute. At age 47, he became a medical doctor and combined bodywork with the practice of medicine. In 1975, Trager was invited to speak at the Esalen Institute, giving the technique widespread recognition. Trager retired in 1977 to devote himself to training students in the Trager Method.

Typical Trager Method Setting

A typical session lasts 60 to 90 minutes. The client lies on a massage table in a comfortable environment. No oil or lotion is used. Gentle, rhythmic rocking, kneading, shaking and stretching techniques are applied to induce a state of relaxation.

Trager Method Training

Trager practitioners are trained and certified by the Trager Institute, www.trager.com, in Mill Valley, CA. A 500-hour certification program is required. To maintain certification, practitioners must complete continuing education on a regular basis and be active members of the Trager Institute.

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