Do you constantly jiggle your leg or tap your fingers without realising it? What many dismiss as a harmless habit could actually be a subtle cry for help from your brain, warns a top psychiatrist.
The Hidden Meaning Behind Fidgeting
Dr. David Spiegel, Associate Chair of Psychiatry at Stanford University, explains that unconscious movements like leg bouncing often serve as physical manifestations of internal turmoil. "When people experience anxiety, their bodies frequently release excess energy through these repetitive motions," he reveals.
Why Your Body Acts Before Your Mind Realises
The phenomenon occurs because anxiety triggers our fight-or-flight response, flooding the body with adrenaline. "Your muscles become primed for action," Dr. Spiegel notes. "Without an actual threat to respond to, this energy has to go somewhere – hence the bouncing or tapping."
When Should You Be Concerned?
While occasional fidgeting is perfectly normal, experts suggest paying attention if you notice:
- Others frequently comment on your movements
- You regularly disrupt shared workspaces or seating
- The habit causes physical discomfort or distraction
- It accompanies other anxiety symptoms like racing thoughts
Dr. Spiegel emphasises: "It's not the bouncing itself that's the issue, but what it might represent. For some, it's their body's way of saying they're carrying too much stress."
Breaking the Cycle
For those wanting to address the root cause, specialists recommend:
- Practising mindfulness to become aware of triggers
- Incorporating regular exercise to manage adrenaline
- Trying stress-reduction techniques like controlled breathing
- Considering professional support if anxiety feels unmanageable
Remember, occasional restlessness is human – but understanding your body's signals could be the first step toward better mental wellbeing.
