The Science Behind The Approach
Extensive research supports that positive effects of Pilates include better balance, resistance, strength, and flexibility. Pilates also helps with posture issues caused by genetic tendencies and environment such as working at a desk for long hours.
The method is used both in rehabilitation and as preparation for surgery such as joint replacement and Emma brings her wealth of experience both as a clinician in rehabilitation and as a Pilates studio owner.
Along with improving muscular endurance and strength, Pilates is also great for joint and bone health, particularly in populations prone to stiffness, osteoporosis or other mobility issues. Its emphasis on high repetitions with low resistance helps strengthen ligaments and tendons (key structures that support joint stability) more effectively than traditional weightlifting. Pilates is also very low impact which minimises joint stress while still challenging the body.
Emma holds a Level 4 Lower Back Pain qualification which addresses spinal pain and many of her patients have reported that pilates exercises taught to them have worked very well alongside or independent of pain killing medication and/or manual therapies.
Pilates also has a positive effect on psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression and living with chronic pain. In chronic pain our neural pathways in the brain are activated and this causes persistent activation of the fight and flight response which in turn causes physical symptoms in the body. This connection between the brain and the body now leads us to look at the role of TRE in reducing pain.​​
Research suggests Tension and Trauma Release Exercises (TRE)® may be effective in reducing deep muscle tension, stress, and symptoms of PTSD as well as anxiety, and depression.
TRE focuses on regulating the nervous system which is so important to help the system metabolise stress hormones.
Up 80% of those suffering from post trauma symptoms also suffer from chronic pain.
Studies have also shown promise for conditions like multiple sclerosis, sleep disturbance issues and migraines with users reporting improvements in symptoms, ability to cope with stress and sleep quality.
TRE® helps the body naturally release deep muscular tension and rebalance the nervous system, reducing the effects of stress, anxiety, PTSD, and depression. By helping the body metabolise stress hormones, TRE supports both physical and emotional recovery.
Dr. David Berceli, the developer of TRE, conducted several studies looking at the effectiveness of TRE in reducing symptoms of PTSD in veterans.
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Veterans with PTSD saw significant symptom reduction after just six weeks of TRE.
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A 2015 study found 12 weeks of TRE led to reduced anxiety and depression and improved quality of life.
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2018 research in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies showed reductions in pain and PTSD symptoms after only eight weeks.
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Case studies, including one published in 2019, highlight improvements in chronic pain, trauma symptoms, and overall wellbeing.
In addition to these studies, there have been several case studies and anecdotal reports that support the effectiveness of TRE in releasing the effects of trauma.
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Together, Pilates and TRE offer a holistic approach to healing—strengthening the body, soothing the nervous system, and restoring balance inside and out.

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