Why are they so effective?
Direct Release of Stored Tension
Chronic stress and traumatic experiences can trap excess energy in muscles and fascia. Neurogenic tremor exercises enable the physical release of this accumulated tension and prevent stress from becoming permanently stored in the body.
Enhancing Autonomous Self-Regulation
By utilizing the body's natural tremor mechanism, the nervous system can more easily shift from fight-flight-freeze mode (sympathetic) to the rest-and-relaxation mode (parasympathetic). This accelerates and improves the ability to self-regulate (stress, emotions, muscle tension).
Completing the Biological Stress Cycle
Since humans today are rarely confronted with purely physical threats (e.g., predators), the physical discharge of stress hormones is often missing. Neurogenic tremors mimic this natural discharge process, preventing fear and tension from lingering in the body. What are today’s stressors? Workload and social pressure. Both tend to remain chronically in our lives, making it even more important to actively break this never-ending cycle.
Improving Neuroplasticity
Long-term stress can alter neural circuits, making the body enter a state of high alert more quickly. Tremor techniques help recalibrate these patterns, supporting healthier responses and greater resilience.
Effects on Key Brain Regions
Neurogenic tremors may help regulate excessive activity in the amygdala—the center for fear and stress processing—thus improving communication with the rational prefrontal cortex. The hippocampus, responsible for memory and learning, also benefits from a calmer amygdala. As a result, the body releases fewer stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.
Influence on the Brainstem
The brainstem (specifically the reticular formation) controls arousal, muscle tone, and reflexes related to fight or flight. Under chronic stress, it often remains in a state of heightened alertness. Neurogenic tremors help discharge excess energy, reduce overactivity, and restore the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
Interestingly, this process can often be observed in the animal kingdom: when a prey animal escapes a predator, it frequently shakes uncontrollably afterward.