Feeling Stressed? Here Are 5 Simple Somatic Exercises To Calm Your Nerves In 5 Minutes

By Afiur
March 22, 2026

If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, these Somatic practices can help you instantly calm your nerves, as per ANI. These exercises rely on physical movement of the body.

The Butterfly Hug

Cross your arms over your chest, resting your hands on opposite shoulders. Alternate tapping each shoulder- left, then right- in a slow, rhythmic pace. This helps synchronise brain hemispheres.

The Physiological Sigh

Take two quick inhales through your nose (filling the lungs on the second), followed by a long, slow exhale through your mouth. Repeat this just 3–5 times to offload carbon dioxide.

Shake and Release

To finish a stress cycle, stand up and literally shake your limbs. Start with your hands and wrists, moving to your arms, then your legs and feet.

Gargling

Exhale with a steady, take a sip of water and girgle for 30 sec. It will help to reduce stress and help to rest.

5-4-3-2-1 Sensory Grounding

When thoughts start to spiral, force your brain back into the present by naming: 5 things you can see,4 things you can physically feel (eg, feet on the floor), 3 things you can hear.

Sensory Grounding

Continue by naming  2 things you can smell, 1 thing you can taste. This 5-4-3-2-1 grounding Method disrupts the worry loop by re-engaging your external senses.

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