Science

Shaking is a neuro-somatic reflex that discharges stress, increases heart rate variability (HRV), and restores autonomic balance.

Ethology → Mammals

After threat, animals shake to complete the stress cycle and return to physiological baseline.

Somatic Therapies

Neurogenic tremor helps release stored survival energy (fight/flight/freeze) and reopens emotional flexibility.

Neuroscience

Rhythm + vibration reduce sympathetic arousal, improve vagal tone, and support calm, alert presence.

HRV — before vs. after shaking

Before After 5–10 min

Nervous Reset

Downshifts sympathetic drive; returns rhythms to a safe window.

Vagus & Safety

Exhalation + vibration support vagal tone and social engagement.

Memory & Emotion

Somatic tracking integrates imprints; reactivity → choice.

Homeostasis

Gradual discharge balances energy and calm.

“HRV rises when the body remembers its biological freedom.”

Read more on Substack →

References

  1. Levine, P. A. (1997). Waking the tiger: Healing trauma. North Atlantic Books.
  2. van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.
  3. Porges, S. W. (2011). The polyvagal theory: Neurophysiological foundations of emotions, attachment, communication, and self-regulation. W. W. Norton.
  4. Payne, P., Levine, P. A., & Crane-Godreau, M. A. (2015). Somatic experiencing: Using interoception and proprioception as core elements of trauma therapy. Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 93. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00093