Shake, Release, Reset: A Simple Exercise to Refresh Your Day

Most often, I work with people to help them increase their capacity for movement and decrease pain, but there is more to movement than form and function. Having studied a variety of dance forms, I love bringing some of those freeing elements into my sessions.

One of my favorite things to teach, outside of Pilates, is shaking. There’s no right or wrong way to do it—just movement for the sake of moving. It’s freeing, fun, and can feel a little silly, but that’s the beauty of it! Shaking helps release tension, stress, and stiffness while reconnecting you to the pleasure of simply having a body. It leaves you feeling tingly, refreshed, and present.

This quick video offers a guided, structured shaking exercise, and feel free to adapt it to your needs. You can even do it seated if that’s more comfortable. It’s a great reset—whether before a workout, during the day to shake off stress, or whenever you need a quick pick-me-up. Find a spot, shake it out, and reset yourself for the rest of your day with a sense of openness, ease, and fun.

Ready to shake, release, and reset? Let’s get moving!

Leila