A simple twirl and shake can help the body deal with stress by releasing tension, claims licensed clinical psychologist Dr Saliha Afridi. The mental health activist shared how the simple practice of “shaking your body parts” can help relieve stress that gets built up. “Really, shaking every part of your body can help because we hold a lot of stress and tension in our body, but we don’t know it. When you see animals startled, they’ll shake. Kind of shakes it off. Start your day with a shake and end it with one. It can be three minutes. But shake it off, and you will feel a lot more relaxed,” Dr Afridi said in a conversation on The Balance Theory podcast.
Does it work?
Consultant neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, shared that the theory of ‘shake it off’ is effective in relieving stress and tension. “Daily routine activities involve sitting for long duration and physical inactivity. Working on computers and excessive screen time stresses the neck and lower back muscles. As a result, our muscles become stiff and tensed, especially towards the end of the day. Shaking different body parts for short periods (3-5 minutes) can relax the muscles and reduce tension,” explained Dr Kumar.
Dr Vinit Banga, director, neurology, Fortis Hospital Faridabad said shaking can be an “effective, non-invasive way” to release tension and reset the nervous system, offering a natural solution for stress management.
“When the body experiences stress, it enters a fight-or-flight mode, leading to muscular tension. Shaking disrupts this cycle by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing the body to relax and recover. We suggest that this method helps to release pent-up energy, improve circulation, and reduce stress hormones like cortisol. Over time, this practice can support a more balanced nervous system, leading to better emotional regulation and reduced anxiety levels,” said Dr Banga.
Here’s what to consider when it comes to stress (Source: Freepik)
According to Dr Kumar, shaking activates the parasympathetic nervous system and signals the brain to calm down, relax, and let go.
“Shaking for short periods can also improve mood and increase positivity. The shaking or vibrating helps to release muscular tension, burn excess adrenaline, and calm down the nervous system to its neutral state, thereby managing stress levels in the body. Shaking therapy can be performed seated or standing. Focus on particular parts of the body, simply try shaking them,” said Dr Kumar.
If you have any pre-existing medical problem, it may be better to consult your doctor before practicing “shaking.”
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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