First Responders' Wellness: A Deep Dive into TRE with Robert Cefoli

First Responders' Wellness: A Deep Dive into TRE with Robert Cefoli

As a certified TRE provider myself, this topic is deeply personal and central to the work I do with first responders, high performers, and anyone navigating stress, burnout, and resilience. Having experienced firsthand the profound impact of TRE on the nervous system, I’ve made it a core part of my coaching and wellness approach. I believe every firefighter, paramedic, and frontline worker deserves access to tools that help them not just survive the job but thrive—physically, mentally, and emotionally. This conversation with Robert Cefoli reinforces why TRE is a game-changer for those in high-stress careers, and I’m committed to bringing this work to more people who need it.? If you want to learn more about the power of TRE - Connect with me (Arjuna George of Silver Arrow) or the awesome folks of FYR Tribe.??

In Episode 75 of Beneath the Helmet, we sit down with Robert Cefoli, a retired FDNY Captain and co-founder of FYR Tribe. This conversation is a powerful deep dive into Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) and its profound impact on first responders. #TRE

TRE isn’t just another wellness tool—it’s a game-changer for mental and physical recovery. As a former firefighter and fitness leader in the FDNY, Robert shares how TRE transformed his life, helping him heal from years of accumulated stress, injuries, and emotional weight.

In this episode, we uncover the real power of TRE—not just as a recovery method, but as a lifeline for first responders, retirees, and their families.

Meet Robert Cefoli

Robert Cefoli is a recently retired Captain from the FDNY who served for over 20 years. He led the FDNY’s Health and Fitness Unit, helping train and support thousands of firefighters. Through his own struggles with chronic pain, stress, and injuries, he discovered TRE—a tool that would completely change the way he viewed health, resilience, and recovery.

Today, as the co-founder of FYR Tribe, Robert is on a mission to bring TRE to first responders everywhere, ensuring they have the tools to release tension, prevent burnout, and transition into retirement with a renewed sense of purpose.

5 Nuggets of Wisdom from This Episode

1. TRE Helped Robert Heal—Physically & Mentally

Robert came to TRE at a time when his body was breaking down—chronic pain, limited mobility, and stress overload. TRE unlocked deep layers of stored tension, allowing him to regain movement, energy, and clarity in ways traditional recovery methods never could.

2. Stress Stays in the Body—TRE Releases It

Most first responders know how to power through stress—but few realize how much tension is stored in the body over time. Robert describes TRE as a way to "shake out the stress" and rewire the nervous system, preventing chronic issues down the road.

3. TRE Is a Recovery Tool—Not Just for Trauma

TRE isn’t just for those with extreme trauma—it’s for anyone dealing with daily stress. Whether it’s firefighters, EMS, police officers, or high-performance athletes, TRE helps restore balance, mobility, and mental clarity.

4. Emotional Releases Are Normal—and Healthy

During his TRE practice, Robert experienced deep emotional releases tied to events from years past—calls, losses, and life stressors he never fully processed. He shares how letting go of these layers helped him reconnect with his emotions, his family, and his purpose.

5. TRE Should Be in Every Fire Department

Through FYRTribe, Robert and his team are bringing TRE to departments across North America. His goal? Make TRE a standard tool for first responders—just like strength training, breathwork, and mental wellness programs.

The Future of TRE for First Responders

Robert’s journey is proof that TRE isn’t just a "nice-to-have"—it’s a necessity. He’s already seen firefighters, retirees, and recruits experience life-changing results, and he’s committed to expanding access to this powerful tool.

Final Thoughts

TRE is more than a technique—it’s a pathway to healing, resilience, and longevity in high-stress careers. If you're a first responder, or know someone who is, this episode is a must-listen.

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Show Host

Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)

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