The science of somatics and shaking
When people first see shaking in a yoga or nervous system class, they sometimes look surprised. Isn’t yoga meant to be calm, slow, and steady? So why would I ask you to bounce, shimmy, or let your jaw tremble?
The answer lies in the science of somatics - practices that focus on the felt sense of the body - and the way our nervous system naturally resets itself.
What is somatic shaking?
Somatic shaking, also known as therapeutic or neurogenic tremoring, is a simple, instinctive movement pattern. Think of a dog that trembles after a loud bang, or a deer that shakes after escaping danger. These aren’t random twitches - they’re the body’s way of discharging the leftover stress response so that the nervous system can return to balance.
Humans have this same mechanism, but we often suppress it. Culturally, we’re taught to 'hold it together,' so instead of shaking off stress, we carry it around as muscle tension, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or digestive discomfort. Somatic practices invite us to reclaim this natural tool.
Why does it work?
Shaking helps release the sympathetic charge - the energy mobilised during fight-or-flight - by activating small stabilising muscles and signalling safety to the brain.
From a biomechanics perspective, shaking stimulates the myotatic stretch reflex (the body’s protective reflex to vibration or stretch), which helps reduce unnecessary muscle tone (it helps tight muscles let go). It also excites proprioceptive nerve endings in fascia and joints (the sensors that tell your brain where your body is in space), which improves body awareness and calms hyper-arousal.
Shaking also boosts blood and lymphatic circulation (supporting detox and nutrient delivery), and evidence suggests that rhythmic somatic movement influences the autonomic nervous system, encouraging a shift into parasympathetic dominance (the 'rest and digest' mode).
Clinical studies have found that somatic-based approaches can reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms, improve emotional regulation, and support recovery from chronic stress. Even mainstream health publications note that shaking can lower stress hormones and reduce muscle tension, helping us reset both body and mind.
Why I include shaking in my classes, workshops, and retreats
I use shaking and other somatic techniques because they are quick, accessible, and empowering. You don’t need to be flexible, fit, or experienced - anyone can do it. It’s also a rare chance to be a little silly, bring in some playful movement, and express feelings for which it’s hard to find the right words. Think flapping the arms like spaghetti or letting the body shimmy freely - movement that goes against the grain of a culture that often encourages us to stick to the straight and narrow.
The beauty is in how you feel afterwards: lighter, tingling or a little bit buzzed, more present, and often calmer. Through a bit of shaking before a slower practice like restorative yoga or Yoga Nidra, we give the body a chance to release excess energy and arrive more fully into deep rest.
Curious? Have a go! The wonderful thing about this is that there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Close your eyes, take a breath and find some little wiggles or shakes and see where it goes. And remember - it’s not about how it looks - it’s about allowing your body to do what it innately knows best: reset and restore.
You can find opportunities to come and shake it off with me in classes and events here and at retreats here.