Shake Off Built-Up Stress
Physical movement can also help release tension. Experts suggest literally shaking the body to help reset the nervous system and return the body to a calmer state.
This can involve shaking the arms, shoulders, legs, and head for at least 60 seconds. Some experts recommend continuing for a few minutes to fully release tension. Adding sound can also help stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays a major role in calming the body.
Shaking the head from side to side and trilling the lips, similar to blowing raspberries, may activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body relax after stress.
Use Grounding Techniques to Interrupt Anxiety
Mindfulness exercises can help slow anxious thoughts before they spiral. Experts recommend using simple grounding actions to interrupt repetitive mental patterns and redirect focus.
Pressing your feet into the floor, relaxing your jaw, wiggling your toes, or correcting your posture are all examples of grounding techniques. These small physical actions help shift attention away from racing thoughts and back to the body.
Anxiety often feeds on repetition and speed. Interrupting that cycle early may help slow the nervous system and reinforce the feeling that stress can be managed rather than feared.
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