Discovering the Ancient Practice of YogaShaking

I recently returned from a rejuvenating weekend at Whatley Manor, where I attended a Bio Meditation retreat that introduced me to an ancient and lesser-known practice: YogaShaking. Each morning, as the sun rose over the lush countryside, we were invited to participate in a session of rhythmic shaking that felt as primal as it was healing. This unique practice, rooted in ancient traditions, left me feeling more grounded, present, and alive than I ever expected.

YogaShaking, also known as “neurogenic tremoring” or simply “shaking meditation,” is a practice that has been utilised for thousands of years across different cultures as a way to release stress and trauma from the body. Though it may seem unusual at first, shaking has deep roots in natural, instinctive behaviour, as animals often shake after stressful encounters to discharge excess energy and return to a state of calm. In fact, this practice closely mirrors how wild animals shake following a fight or flight response, allowing them to quickly reset and avoid carrying stress long-term.

The Origins of YogaShaking

The origins of YogaShaking can be traced back to various ancient cultures. In African and Indigenous healing traditions, communal shaking and dancing were integral parts of spiritual and physical well-being. In Taoist practices, similar forms of body movement were used to unblock “chi,” the life force that flows through the body. Even within yoga itself, shaking or spontaneous movement is part of kundalini practices, where the body naturally moves to release trapped energy.

The modern resurgence of YogaShaking as a structured practice can be credited to the work of trauma experts like Dr. David Berceli, who developed Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) as a way to help individuals relieve built-up physical and emotional tension. While YogaShaking is often used as a tool to process trauma, it can also be practised by anyone seeking to connect more deeply with their body, release stress, and energise themselves.

How YogaShaking is Practiced

YogaShaking is a simple yet profoundly effective technique that anyone can practise. During the retreat, we spent an hour each morning incorporating this into our routine, however I have found that 30 minutes is a good length of time when you have a busy schedule and even just 15 minutes waiting for the kettle to boil can make a difference to my day. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Warm-Up: Begin by standing with your feet hip-width apart, knees slightly bent, and arms relaxed at your sides. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to centre yourself.
2. Start the Shaking: Gently start bouncing on the balls of your feet, allowing your knees to soften. Let your entire body begin to shake in a loose, rhythmic motion. The idea is not to control the movement but to allow your body to shake naturally. You might start with small, subtle movements and gradually let the shaking intensify.
3. Release Control: As the shaking continues, you may feel certain areas of tension in your body—your shoulders, hips, or back. Allow your body to move freely and focus on any areas that seem to need more release. The more you “let go,” the more effective the practice becomes.
4. Duration: A typical session lasts between 5 to 20 minutes, though you can adjust the timing based on how you feel. In the retreat, we found that around 10 minutes of continuous shaking was sufficient to unlock tension and bring a sense of release.
5. Slow Down: When you’re ready to stop, slow the shaking down gradually until you’re completely still. Take a few moments to stand still, breathe deeply, and observe how your body feels.

Why Shaking? The Science Behind It

Shaking works by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for calming the body after periods of stress. Just like animals instinctively shake to reset their nervous systems after a life-threatening encounter, we too can benefit from this release. When we shake, we allow our bodies to discharge pent-up energy, stress, and tension, helping to reset both the body and mind.

Many people find that regular shaking practice helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety, chronic stress, and even physical pain. By shaking, we release cortisol, the stress hormone, and improve circulation throughout the body. The rhythmic movement also encourages the release of endorphins, which enhances mood and promotes a feeling of well-being.

Tips for Incorporating YogaShaking into Your Routine

1. Create a Sacred Space: Choose a space where you feel safe and comfortable. Whether it’s in your living room, a yoga studio, or even outdoors, make sure it’s a space where you can move freely without distractions.
2. Time of Day: Yoga shaking can be practised at any time, but many people find that doing it in the morning energises them for the day ahead, while practising it in the evening helps to release the day’s stresses and calm the body before sleep.
3. Music and Mantras: Music can greatly enhance the experience of YogaShaking. You can choose upbeat, rhythmic music to help inspire movement, or calming, meditative sounds if you’re looking for a more reflective experience. Drumming, chanting, or shamanic music are great choices. Alternatively, you might want to chant or hum softly during the practice, as the vibration of your voice can further deepen the release. We listened and chanted the Gayatri Mantra which was a beautiful way to start the morning.
4. Stay Consistent: Like any practice, consistency is key. Try incorporating YogaShaking into your routine 2-3 times a week to start. Over time, you may find it becomes a go-to practise whenever you’re feeling stressed or disconnected from your body.

Final Thoughts

YogaShaking is a powerful, intuitive practice that can benefit anyone looking to relieve stress, process emotions, or simply feel more grounded and alive. While it may take some time to get used to, the effects are profound. I encourage anyone curious to try it out—you may find that this ancient practice becomes an essential part of your wellness routine.