23 June 2023
Shake It Out: How To Regulate Your Nervous System With Somatic Shaking
In recent years, a rising trend known as somatic shaking has gained recognition as a powerful practice for regulating the nervous system and promoting overall well-being. This unique technique involves intentionally inducing a tremor or shaking in the body to release stored tension and stress. While it may seem unconventional, somatic shaking is rooted in science and has been found to offer numerous physical and mental health benefits.
Somatic shaking is based on the body’s natural instinct to release stress and trauma through trembling. When faced with a threat or experiencing intense emotions, the body responds by activating the sympathetic nervous system, triggering a “fight or flight” response. However, if the body is unable to complete the natural discharge of this activated energy, it can become stored as tension, leading to various physical and emotional issues over time.
As someone who has embraced the practice of somatic shaking, I can attest to its immediate relief and transformative effects. When I first encountered somatic shaking, I approached it with scepticism. However, as I surrendered myself to the practice in a safe space with comfortable clothing, I felt a profound shift within me. The gentle tremors that coursed through my body seemed to release layers of tension, leaving me feeling lighter and more centred. The cathartic experience provided me with a renewed sense of vitality, clarity, and inner peace.
Benefits of Somatic Shaking
Engaging in regular somatic shaking can yield profound benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Physically, it promotes the release of muscular tension, increases blood flow, and enhances the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Mentally, somatic shaking allows for the release of pent-up emotions, reduces anxiety, and improves overall emotional resilience. Additionally, this practice can help improve body awareness, restore a sense of groundedness, and foster a deep connection between the mind and body.
How to Practise Somatic Shaking
To embark on your own somatic shaking journey, it is important to create a safe and comfortable space free from distractions. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows for unrestricted movement. Begin by grounding yourself through deep, conscious breathing. Then, invite the tremors into your body by gently shaking different parts, starting with your hands, arms, and shoulders, and gradually progressing to other areas like the legs and hips. Allow the shaking to emerge naturally, surrendering to the innate wisdom of your body.
During the practice, remember to maintain a non-judgmental attitude and let go of any expectations. Focus on the sensations and allow them to flow freely, trusting that your body knows how to release stored tension. After the shaking subsides, take a few moments to rest and observe the newfound stillness within you. Embrace the sense of renewal and integration that arises.
Somatic shaking offers a transformative pathway to regulate the nervous system, release accumulated stress, and cultivate a deep mind-body connection. Backed by scientific understanding and the personal experiences of many practitioners, this practice has the potential to unlock profound physical and mental health benefits. By incorporating somatic shaking into your wellness routine and approaching it with an open mind, you can tap into its therapeutic power and experience the profound liberation it brings. So, shake it out and embrace the profound healing that awaits within you.