Red Beard Embodiment Podcast

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with Mohammed Salah, the first certified TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises) provider in the Arab region and the founder of TRE Arabia. Mohammed shares his transformative journey with TRE, starting from his initial skepticism to how it profoundly changed his life, leading him to spread the practice across 22 countries. He discusses the benefits of TRE not just for trauma recovery but as a holistic tool for enhancing overall well-being, including better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved physical health.

Mohammed and Alex delve into the upcoming TRE initiatives aimed at broadening the reach and understanding of TRE in the Arab world. They highlight the significance of the five-day TRE workshop in Dubai, which marks a pioneering step towards integrating TRE into various sectors such as healthcare, emergency services, and athletics. Furthermore, Mohammed outlines the structure and goals of the online TRE certification training for the Arab region, emphasizing the importance of making TRE accessible to a diverse audience, from professionals experiencing burnout to individuals seeking personal growth.

The conversation also touches on the broader vision for TRE Arabia and the potential of TRE to foster resilience and healing across cultural and professional boundaries. Mohammed's commitment to training more TRE providers in the Arab region is a testament to his belief in TRE's power to improve lives. The episode is a compelling invitation for listeners to explore TRE, whether as a tool for personal development or as a pathway to becoming a certified provider.

Key Highlights:

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 01:31 History and First Experience with TRE
• 09:33 Work in Rehab Centers
• 14:02 Teaching TRE in Chiang Mai
• 16:38 Bringing TRE to the Middle East
• 24:07 Founding TRE Arabia
• 24:43 Teaching TRE in Jeddah
• 25:07 Introduction to TRE in Jeddah
• 26:21 Mission and Vision for TRE Arabia
• 27:14 Certifying Providers in the Middle East
• 28:13 Expanding TRE in Riyadh
• 29:05 Targeting Specific Groups for TRE
• 30:26 Making TRE Accessible to Everyone
• 32:15 Certifying Trainers in the Region
• 33:06 Applicability of TRE in Different Settings
• 34:34 Compassion Fatigue and Hospital Systems
• 35:32 TRE for First Responders
• 36:22 TRE for Athletes
• 37:14 TRE for NGOs and Refugees
• 39:32 Benefits of TRE for Everyone
• 41:30 Finding Home Within Yourself
• 43:27 Fascination with Personal Stories and Experiences
• 45:22 Acceptance and Results of TRE
• 47:27 Upcoming TRE Workshop in Dubai
• 49:10 Module 1 Certification Training in July
• 51:27 Expanding TRE in the Arab Region
• 51:52 Closing Remarks

Links and Resources: 

TRE Workshop in Dubai

• Dates: May 27th to May 31st
• Location: Kan Yoga Wellness Center, Dubai
• Details: A five-day workshop open to everyone, with specific days dedicated to different groups such as hospital staff, athletes, police officers, and others. The workshop will feature Dr. David Bercelli, the founder of TRE, along with eight TRE providers from TRE Arabia and other regions.

TRE Online Certification for the Arab Region

• Module 1 Dates: July 19th and July 20th
• Format: Online, conducted in English
• Instructors: The certification will be led by Mohammed Salah, in collaboration with other experienced TRE professionals.

In this compelling episode of the podcast, host Alex sits down with Julia Yanker, a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, coach, and self-described adventurologist, for an insightful discussion on the intersection of nervous system work, somatic experiencing, and the draw of adventure sports. Julia shares her personal journey from a stress-filled childhood to her explorations in yoga, Buddhism, life coaching, and eventually, somatic experiencing, which she sought after experiencing traumatic incidents in skiing and whitewater sports. Her story is one of self-discovery, learning to meet her own needs, and the profound impact of somatic experiencing on her life and relationships.

The conversation delves into how adventure sports served as a pathway for Julia to explore her inner landscape, revealing the neurobiology behind being an "adrenaline junkie" and how trauma can be processed without directly confronting the event. Alex and Julia discuss the importance of the relationship with the self and others in healing and personal growth. Julia's experiences highlight the transformation from seeking extreme experiences for fulfillment to finding joy and satisfaction in gentler, more introspective activities.

Listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode to hear Julia's fascinating insights and her journey through somatic experiencing, adventure sports, and self-healing. For those interested in exploring somatic experiencing further or seeking guidance in their own journey towards healing and self-discovery, resources and links mentioned in the interview can be found below.

Don't miss out on this profound conversation full of personal insights and professional wisdom. Listen to the full episode now to dive deeper into Julia Yanker's journey and the transformative power of somatic experiencing.

Key Highlights:

• 00:00 - Intro
• 01:30 - Somatic Experiencing Journey
• 02:51 - Adventure Trauma
• 04:16 - Ski Incident
• 06:38 - Relationship Dynamics
• 08:13 - Choosing SE Therapy
• 10:08 - Stonewalling Pattern
• 11:59 - Whitewater Insights
• 16:15 - Inner Landscape Exploration
• 21:00 - Shift in Adventure Pursuits
• 25:00 - Self-validation Practice
• 33:47 - Training in SE

Links and Resources:  

• Website: https://www.juliayanker.com/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julia.urbanski3/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-yanker-964021bb 

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Red Beard team member Aleksandra Bazinska, a seasoned therapist from Tucson, Arizona, specializing in Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and developmental trauma therapy. Aleksandra shares her compelling journey from growing up in Poland amidst a community deeply affected by PTSD, to discovering her passion for healing through various somatic practices. She emphasizes the effectiveness of therapies that focus on bodily sensations and movements, drawing from her extensive background in physical therapy, yoga, qigong, and numerous other modalities. Her approach is grounded in the belief that therapy can be both impactful and enjoyable, moving away from the pain-centric narrative often associated with trauma recovery.

Throughout the conversation, Aleksandra and Alex delve into the nuances of developmental trauma, differentiating it from shock traumas and highlighting its profound long-term effects on individuals' lives. They explore innovative therapeutic methods that cater to the body's memory and the nervous system's capacity for healing. The discussion illuminates the transformative power of somatic therapies like SensoriMotor Psychotherapy and the DARe (Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Experience) method, underscoring the importance of safety, connection, and the re-education of the nervous system towards positive experiences.

For those intrigued by the therapeutic journey and the somatic approaches to healing trauma, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and methodologies that promise a path to recovery filled with compassion, understanding, and newfound strength. Don't miss out on this deep dive into the heart of somatic therapy and the potential for personal transformation.

Key Highlights:

• 00:00 Intro
• 01:24 Developmental trauma explained
• 03:17 Origin of Aleksandra's journey
• 04:29 Family's trauma history
• 05:27 Healing through touch
• 06:40 Diverse modalities explored
• 07:12 Transition to somatic therapy
• 10:21 Shift in psychotherapy
• 14:29 Somatic approaches efficacy
• 17:51 Developmental trauma dynamics
• 23:10 Importance of safety
• 27:24 Internal Family Systems benefits

Links and Resources:  

• Book an online consultation with Aleksandra: https://www.redbeardsomatictherapy.com/team/aleksandra-bazinska 
• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
• Nurturing Resilience by Kathy L. Kain and Stephen J. Terrell

In this episode of the Red Beard Embodiment Podcast, host Alex Greene sits down with Siv Jøssang Shields, a chiropractor based in Voss, Norway, to delve into her journey towards building Integrated Human, a transformative platform combining various therapeutic practices. Siv shares her profound experiences with the neurogenic tremor mechanism, highlighting its role in her chiropractic practice and personal growth. The conversation sheds light on how her quest for deeper understanding and effective healing modalities led her to integrate techniques such as Transcendental Meditation, HeartMath, and ultimately, SOMA Breath into her work. Siv’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity and the pursuit of holistic health, underscoring the innate force of nature within us all that facilitates healing and transformation.

The podcast explores the serendipitous intersection between Alex and Siv, united by their shared interest in the therapeutic applications of TRE (Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercises) in their respective fields. Their paths crossed thanks to the guidance of David Berceli, the founder of TRE, who recognized the potential for their collaboration. This meeting of minds sparked a journey into exploring the integration of neurogenic tremors with other therapeutic modalities, aiming to enhance the scope and effectiveness of somatic healing practices. 

Alex and Siv are currently embarking on an innovative project that integrates SOMA Breath workshops into the Red Beard Somatic Therapy offerings, aiming to create a holistic healing experience that harnesses the combined power of neurogenic tremoring and breathwork. This collaboration seeks to delve into the vast potential of human healing and transformation, providing participants with a unique confluence of techniques designed to foster personal growth and enhance wellbeing. The initiative represents a pioneering step towards holistic health, combining Alex and Siv's expertise and shared vision for advancing somatic therapy practices. For those interested in experiencing this transformative approach firsthand, we encourage you to join the upcoming workshops and become part of a community exploring the frontiers of healing and self-discovery. Stay tuned to Red Beard Somatic Therapy's platform for more details on how to participate in these groundbreaking sessions.

Key Highlights:

• 00:00 Intro
• 00:21 Innate Force of Nature
• 00:50 Siv's Background Introduction
• 01:23 Maharishi University Meditation
• 02:13 TRE and Clinical Applications
• 03:05 Siv's Therapeutic Journey
• 06:05 Influence of Transcendental Meditation
• 08:35 Chiropractic Career Shift
• 10:10 Practice in Norway
• 11:15 Introduction to Neurogenic Tremoring
• 14:55 Meeting Stephen Porges
• 17:46 Incorporating TRE in Practice
• 20:19 Integrated Human Project
• 28:22 Neurogenic Integration Collaboration
• 31:12 Educational Platform Goals
• 37:13 Connection with David Bercelli
• 42:02 Combining Breathwork and TRE
• 48:18 Experimenting with Red Beard Audience
• 51:17 Music and Rhythms in Healing

Links and Resources:  

• Website: https://integrated-human.com/
• Join the SOMA Breath Introductory Workshop with Siv Jøssang Shields : https://www.redbeardsomatictherapy.com/workshops 

Video Editing by Mohammad Ali: https://www.behance.net/mohammad_alimalik 

In this episode, we meet Arjuna George, a retired fire chief who has started a new journey helping firefighters and others grow stronger and lead better. Arjuna talks about his 24 years fighting fires in British Columbia and how he moved on to focus on wellness, leadership, and the benefits of Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE). He shares his struggles with burnout and how TRE helped him find peace and health. Arjuna's story shows us that it's possible to overcome tough times and find new paths to happiness and well-being.

Arjuna's conversation is full of hope and advice for anyone facing stress and looking for ways to improve their life. He tells us about his podcast, "Beneath the Helmet," where he explores mental health, physical fitness, and personal growth for firefighters. His message is clear: taking care of your mind and body is key to doing well in any job, especially in demanding ones like firefighting. Arjuna's journey from a fire chief to a coach who helps others find joy and balance is truly inspiring.

Don't miss out on Arjuna George's moving and insightful story. Listen to the full episode for a deep dive into how resilience, mental health, and personal care can change lives. Check out Arjuna's website, Silver Arrow Coaching and Consulting, and his podcast for more great content. You'll find links to resources and TRE providers in our show notes.

Key Highlights:

• 00:30 Meet Arjuna George
• 01:00 Why Arjuna changed careers
• 02:00 How TRE changed Arjuna's life
• 03:17 Fighting fires and facing burnout
• 04:25 Arjuna decides to take a break
• 05:20 Arjuna's path to wellness
• 07:23 First steps with TRE
• 09:09 Becoming a TRE provider
• 10:40 Starting Silver Arrow Coaching
• 14:00 Learning to manage anger
• 16:50 TRE in the firefighter community
• 19:10 Arjuna's coaching approach
• 23:31 TRE in health clinics
• 26:15 Planning wellness retreats
• 28:26 TRE after losing a firefighter
• 35:35 "Beneath the Helmet" podcast themes

Links and Resources Mentioned:  

• Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunageorge/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SilverArrowCoaching/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silver_arrow_coaching/ 
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOk6WxxtCfp0DsTx5_jrO4g 
• Podcast: Beneath the Helmet Show  www.beneaththehelmet.ca    
• Book: Burnt Around the Edges - A Guide to Mastering Stress and Surviving Burnout   www.burntaroundtheedges.com 
• Website: www.silverarrowco.com 
• Email: [email protected] 

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Cheda Mikic, a seasoned TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises) trainer and educator, whose work spans over 30 years across Europe, the US, and the UK. Cheda shares his journey from personal trauma to becoming a leading figure in the field of complementary therapy, including his expertise in craniosacral therapy and naturopathy. Delving into the innovative and educational aspects of TRE, particularly post-certification education, Cheda offers unique perspectives on the ongoing learning and exploration in TRE practices.

Listeners will be treated to an in-depth conversation about the importance of diaphragm work, the integration of primitive reflexes, and the holistic approach to healing and body awareness that Cheda promotes. From his olive farm in Italy, Cheda's passion for organic living and nature's teachings shines through, adding depth to his therapeutic approach. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the transformative power of TRE, the significance of body work in healing trauma, and the journey of continuous learning and teaching in the field of therapy.

Don't miss out on this captivating episode full of insights, personal stories, and practical advice for both practitioners and those seeking healing.

Key Highlights:

• 00:24 Introduction to Cheda Mikic and his work in TRE
• 01:16 Cheda's innovative approach to post-certification education
• 02:26 Cheda's life on an olive farm in Italy
• 04:07 Cheda's professional journey into therapy and TRE
• 05:59 Early influences and the move towards therapeutic work
• 07:22 Discovery of TRE and its transformative effects
• 09:21 Integration of TRE with other therapeutic practices
• 11:43 The significance of the diaphragm in TRE and healing
• 14:24 The role of primitive reflexes in TRE and personal development
• 17:56 Cheda's exploration of developmental stages and body reading in therapy

Links and Resources Mentioned:  

• Website: https://www.trecentre.com/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trecentre 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trecentre/ 

This episode features Niraj Naik, the founder of SOMA Breath, a global breathwork community. Niraj shares his path from being a pharmacist to discovering the healing effects of breathwork. His own health challenges led him to explore and eventually master the art of using breath for healing and wellness. SOMA Breath, his creation, combines ancient techniques with modern science to help others heal and grow.

Niraj talks about how breathwork not only helped him overcome his health issues but also transformed his life. He explains how controlling your breath can lead to better health, peace, and personal power. The episode is packed with insights on how Soma Breath works, its benefits, and Niraj's vision for a healthier world through the power of breathing.

Don't miss this powerful episode. Dive into Niraj Naik's story and discover how you can use breathwork to change your life. Check out Soma Breath to start your journey and find more peace and health.

Key Highlights:

• 00:00 Intro
• 00:30 Niraj's Story
• 02:00 Finding Breathwork
• 04:25 Pharmacy to Breathwork
• 06:40 How Breath Heals
• 09:15 Soma Breath Explained
• 12:00 Beating Illness with Breath
• 15:20 Learning Soma Breath
• 18:05 Music and Breathing
• 21:10 Breath and Trauma
• 24:00 Soma Breath's Future
• 26:30 The Role of Diet
• 29:00 Meditation and Mindfulness
• 31:45 Impact on Mental Health
• 34:10 Building a Breathwork Community
• 37:00 Personal Transformation Stories

Links and Resources Mentioned: 

• Website: https://www.somabreath.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/517749358627036/ 
• Instagram - Niraj: https://www.instagram.com/nirajnaikofficial/ 
• Instagram - Soma: https://www.instagram.com/somabreath/ 

In this new podcast episode, we dive deep into the realms of somatic psychotherapy, interdisciplinary practices, and the art of embodying multi-modality in therapy with our distinguished guest, Dr. Brian Tierney. Known as the Somatic Doctor, Brian brings a unique blend of expertise in somatic psychotherapy, dance, and bodywork, shining a light on the intricate connections between the body, mind, and spirit.

Throughout our conversation, Brian shares his journey from a business student with a budding interest in somatic practices to becoming a leader in the field of integrative therapy. His eclectic approach, combining talk therapy, dance, and structural integration bodywork, offers a fresh perspective on therapeutic practices. Brian's work emphasizes the importance of navigating multiple therapeutic angles, including trauma resolution, dance and movement, and the integration of various bodywork modalities, to support human development and well-being.

A highlight of our discussion revolves around Brian's deep commitment to interdisciplinary practice and research. He challenges the trend towards excessive specialization in therapy, advocating for a broader, more holistic approach to understanding and treating the human psyche. Brian's insights into the role of dance, movement, and body awareness in therapy provide valuable lessons on the power of embodying multi-modality to foster healing and personal growth.

Listeners are invited to explore the full episode to delve into Brian's profound insights and experiences. For more information on Dr. Brian Tierney's work, visit his website at somaticdoctor.com and follow him on Instagram. Engage with his teachings and join us in exploring the vast potential of integrative and somatic therapies to enrich our lives and therapeutic practices.

Key Highlights:

• 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Brian Tierney
• 02:12 Interdisciplinary practice and research
• 02:54 Origin story and path to somatic psychotherapy
• 04:26 The transformative power of bodywork and dance
• 06:23 The journey through graduate studies and beyond
• 08:30 The significance of men's work in therapy
• 11:59 An integrative approach to psychology
• 17:01 The tension between opposites in therapy
• 21:51 The future of multimodal therapeutic practices
• 25:39 Self-regulation and the role of dynamic experiences
• 29:04 Embracing playfulness in therapy
• 33:01 The challenge of othering in therapeutic communities
• :37:06 Brian's clinical practice and teaching philosophy
• 41:27 The importance of facial work in therapy
• 46:18 Polyvagal theory and its place in modern therapy
• 50:43 The evolving landscape of somatic psychotherapy

For those interested in the intersection of somatic practices, dance, and psychotherapy, this episode is a must-listen. Dive into the full conversation to uncover the depths of Dr. Brian Tierney's work and the transformative potential of integrating multiple modalities into therapeutic practice.

Links and Resources Mentioned:  

• Website: https://somaticdoctor.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SomaticDoctor/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesomaticdoctor 

In this episode, we dive into the life of Captain Rob Cefoli, a distinguished member of the FDNY with nearly two decades of service. As the Director of Health and Fitness at the academy, Rob's role is pivotal in shaping the physical and mental wellbeing of firefighters. His journey takes an unexpected turn when he discovers Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE), a method that profoundly impacts his personal and professional life.       

Rob's exploration of TRE began as a means to address chronic injuries, which he later understood were manifestations of accumulated stress and trauma from his demanding career. Adopting a daily TRE routine, Rob experienced a significant improvement in his physical health, which led him to advocate for its integration within the FDNY. His narrative is not just about physical healing, but also about the journey towards emotional and mental resilience, striking a chord with anyone facing similar challenges in high-stress professions.

The episode delves into the wider implications of TRE in the firefighting community, highlighting its potential as a tool for stress management and emotional well-being. Rob's story is a testament to the power of alternative therapies in addressing the unique challenges faced by first responders. His experience with TRE not only brought about personal healing but also paved the way for a paradigm shift in how stress and trauma are addressed within the FDNY.

Tune in to this episode to hear Captain Rob Cefoli's inspiring story and learn more about how TRE is transforming the approach to health and fitness in the firefighting community. Discover the potential of this innovative exercise in managing stress and trauma, and explore its benefits for both physical and emotional well-being.

Key Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Captain Rob Cefoli and his role in FDNY

01:40 How TRE came into Rob's life

02:56 Rob's commitment to daily TRE practice

05:20 Linking physical pain with stress and trauma

07:25 Introduction of TRE in FDNY

08:13 Dr. Bercelli's customized TRE training

09:31 TRE's impact on Rob’s well-being and family life

10:23 Reconnecting with family life

12:54 Understanding the nervous system

15:28 Home life improvements

17:29 Introducing TRE to FDNY and community

22:58 Future goals for TRE in the community

24:12 Addressing trauma in emergency services

25:17 Personal journey with TRE    

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Rob Cefoli LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goalcrush 

In this episode of our podcast, we reconnect with RG Shore, author of the spiritual memoir "The Ocean Inside Me." Expanding on our previous discussion last fall about his book in the making, RG delves deeper into his extraordinary journey of healing racial trauma. He shares his unique experience of finding peace and self-awareness while incarcerated in a predominantly white prison, emphasizing the paradox of discovering healing in a place of confinement. Central to RG's journey is the practice of visual meditation, which he used as a sanctuary amidst the chaos and a tool for introspection.

In our last conversation with RG (Episode: 'White Noise, Brown Trauma: A Story of Awakening ft. Ro Shore'), we explored his profound story of personal growth and the transformative impact of meditation and embodiment practices during his incarceration. This episode builds upon that foundation, offering new insights into RG's continued journey and the evolution of his healing process.

Throughout this episode, RG also delves into the process of self-publishing and the evolution of the publishing industry. His decision to control his narrative by self-publishing is a powerful statement on authenticity and self-determination. This episode not only explores RG's book but also his broader vision of healing and growth, which extends to developing a masterclass on Udemy and creating a supportive community through his nonprofit organization, Northwest Wisdom. His holistic approach to healing invites others to explore their paths to inner peace and healing.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in personal growth, healing, and the transformative power of storytelling. RG's insights and experiences are not only inspiring but also offer practical approaches to overcoming personal challenges. To hear the full story and learn more about RG's journey and his techniques for self-discovery, tune into the full episode.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Link to previous episode: White Noise, Brown Trauma: A Story of Awakening ft. Ro Shore: https://www.redbeardsomatictherapy.com/post/podcast-from-prison-to-redemption-a-story-of-awakening-ft-ro-shore 
• RG Shore's Book: "The Ocean Inside Me" https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/rg-shore/the-ocean-inside-me-a-spiritual-memoir-on-healing-racial-trauma/ 
• RG Shore's Masterclass on Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/course/healing-trauma-through-visual-meditation/?referralCode=6E03F0357DEB92E59573 
• Northwest Wisdom:http://www.northwestwisdom.org/

Key Highlights:

00:30 - Intro to RG Shore

01:50 - The Birth of a Memoir

02:59 - Healing in Prison

04:14 - Visual Meditation Beginnings

06:34 - Discovering Internal Systems

08:25 - Energy and Meditation

09:46 - Masterclass on Meditation

11:08 - Teaching Healing Methods

13:22 - Imaginative Healing

15:04 - Encountering Younger Self

17:30 - Safe Space Visualization

20:25 - Book Publishing Journey

23:00 - Stigma of Incarceration

26:00 - The Shift to Self-Publishing

29:44 - Fundraising and Planning

34:27 - 2024 Goals and Projects