NORTHWEST TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) \u2014 A Tallahassee workshop is teaching Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) that use natural muscle tremors to help neighbors release stress and regulate their nervous systems.<\/p>\n
WATCH FULL REPORT BELOW:<\/p>\n
Local workshop teaches body-based technique to help manage stress and trauma<\/p>\n
As economic, social and political pressures continue to rise, some neighbors are looking for new ways to manage stress in both the mind and the body.<\/p>\n
“I want to be as healthy mentally as I possibly can,” said Tamara Odom, a neighbor and TRE participant.<\/p>\n
A local workshop is teaching a body-based technique that some participants say helps release built-up tension.<\/p>\n
“There’s so much more going on in the world today. We’re very divided, and this is something that you could do for yourself to bring yourself peace,” said Odom.<\/p>\n
The practice is called TRE, or Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises. It uses a series of seven simple movements to activate a natural muscle tremor response. <\/p>\n
Therapist and facilitator Ashley Pickard says that response can help reduce physical tension associated with stress.<\/p>\n
“So these seven exercises bring about this tremor, and then we lay on the ground and tremor shake for anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. And this releases that tension that the body is holding onto and it regulates the nervous system, so that we feel relaxed and calm. It’s a way to address symptoms of PTSD without having to talk about it or think about it,” Pickard said.<\/p>\n
Mental health strain is a national issue, but local data show it’s impacting neighbors here at home as well. <\/p>\n
According to Leon County Community Health reporting, close to 1 in 100 neighbors have been hospitalized for a mental health disorder. State numbers also show suicide rates in Leon County track close to the Florida average.<\/p>\n
The American Psychological Association also says many adults report high stress levels connected to finances, social division, and the future of the country.<\/p>\n
Odom says she has practiced TRE and found it helpful during a stressful season in her life.<\/p>\n
“The benefits are amazing. The calm that you experience afterwards I can’t explain it,” Odom said.<\/p>\n
Pickard offered a no-cost class for first responders in January and has another session planned for teachers in March. <\/p>\n
Neighbors can also sign up for a session on Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Abundance Wellness Center.<\/p>\n
Body-based stress practices like TRE should not replace medical or psychological care, but may serve as an additional coping tool for some people. <\/p>\n
You can find more details on the Discovering Peace Within<\/a> website.<\/p>\n This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.<\/p>\n Want to see more local news? Visit the WTXL ABC 27 Website. <\/a>
Stay in touch with us anywhere, anytime
Like us on Facebook<\/a>
Follow us on Instagram <\/a>and X.<\/a><\/p>\n