A form of massage designed to release deeply ingrained tension; a form of bodywork. The Trager approach is a form of gentle, rocking massage conducted by a therapist and combined with movement exercises called “mentastics,” or mental gymnastics, intended to be performed by the person on his or her own. Trager bodywork is based on the idea that through a meditative state achieved by the therapist, the person receiving treatment can “hook up” with the subconscious mind of the therapist and transfer healing energy through massage. Based on the idea that discomfort, pain, and loss of physical function are symptoms of accumulated emotional stress and tension, Trager massage is intended to be a preventive therapy rather than a cure for specific ailments. It is used to help relieve back problems, treat physical injuries, and improve athletic performance.