While fidgeting can be a natural response to certain situations, excessive or uncontrollable fidgeting may impact our productivity and wellbeing.
Whether you’re working in a bustling office or simply trying to unwind at home, these practical tips aim to help you harness restless energy and promote a sense of calm and concentration.
Mindful breathing
When you feel the urge to fidget, take a moment to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This simple technique can help calm your mind and reduce the need to fidget.
Stretch breaks
Incorporate short stretch breaks into your daily routine. Simple stretches like neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, and wrist circles can help release tension and alleviate the urge to fidget.
Mindful movement
If you can, though, get up and move instead of fidgeting in your seat. Take a quick walk for a coffee or to fill up your water bottle, or do some gentle yoga stretches. Moving your body mindfully can help release pent-up energy and improve focus.
Stress management
Practise stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualisation exercises. Managing stress can help reduce the underlying causes of fidgeting.
Identify triggers
Pay attention to situations or emotions that trigger your fidgeting. Once you identify the triggers, you can develop coping strategies to address them more effectively.
Stay hydrated and nourished
Dehydration and hunger can exacerbate restlessness and fidgeting. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and eat regular, nutritious meals to keep your energy levels stable.
Practise patience and self-compassion
Remember that overcoming fidgeting habits takes time and patience. Be kind to yourself and celebrate small victories along the way.
Seek professional help if needed
If fidgeting significantly interferes with your daily life or mental health, consider seeking support from a therapist or healthcare provider. They can help you explore underlying causes and develop personalised strategies for managing fidgeting behaviour.
This article was originally published under the title Finding Focus in Issue 37 – Practising Patience. You can purchase previous issues and enjoy more enchanting content here.
