The Science of Fidgeting: Why We Do It and How It Affects Our Thinking

Ever found yourself tapping your foot or twirling a pen during a meeting? You’re not alone. Fidgeting is a common behavior, but why do we do it? And does it help or harm our thinking process? Let’s dive into the science behind fidgeting, explore its types, and discover best practices to harness its benefits.

Why We Fidget During Thinking

Fidgeting is more than just a quirky habit; it’s a natural response to various stimuli and states of mind. Here’s why we fidget:

• Self-Regulation: Fidgeting helps regulate our arousal levels, keeping us in the optimal state for cognitive tasks. It’s a way to manage our energy and focus, especially when we’re feeling either too relaxed or too jittery [1][2].
• Stress Relief: It acts as a coping mechanism to alleviate stress and anxiety. When we fidget, we might be unconsciously trying to soothe our nervous system [1][3].
• Attention Management: Fidgeting can help maintain attention by providing a physical outlet for excess energy, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with ADHD [3][4].

Does Fidgeting Help or Harm the Thinking Process?

The impact of fidgeting on cognitive performance is a topic of ongoing research. Here’s what we know:

• Enhances Focus: Fidgeting can increase blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, the brain area responsible for focused attention and judgment, thereby enhancing cognitive performance [1][4].
• Memory and Recall: Studies have shown that activities like doodling during a task can improve memory retention by preventing the mind from wandering too far [2][5].
• Potential Distraction: While fidgeting can help some people focus, it can also be distracting to others and may be perceived negatively in social settings [2][3].

Types of Fidgeting

Fidgeting comes in various forms, each serving different purposes. Here are some common types:

• Hand Fidgeting: Includes activities like twirling a pen, clicking a ballpoint pen, or using fidget toys like stress balls and fidget spinners [3][6].
• Foot Fidgeting: Involves tapping feet, bouncing legs, or using under-desk devices designed to promote leg movement [7][8].
• Whole-Body Fidgeting: Activities like shifting in your seat, stretching, or using a yoga ball chair to engage in dynamic sitting [7][8].

Best Practices for Fidgeting to Improve Alertness Without Harming

To harness the benefits of fidgeting without causing distractions, consider these best practices:

• Choose the Right Tools: Use fidget tools that are quiet and unobtrusive, such as stress balls, fidget cubes, or textured items. Avoid overly stimulating or noisy gadgets like fidget spinners in quiet environments [4][8].
• Set Boundaries: Establish clear rules for when and how to use fidget tools, especially in shared spaces like classrooms or offices. This helps minimize distractions for others [8][9].
• Mindful Fidgeting: Engage in fidgeting activities that require minimal cognitive effort, such as tapping fingers or wiggling toes. This allows you to stay focused on the primary task at hand [8][10].

Conclusion:

Fidgeting is a natural and often beneficial behavior that helps us manage stress, maintain focus, and regulate our energy levels. By understanding the science behind it and adopting best practices, we can harness its benefits without causing distractions.

Key Takeaways:

• Fidgeting helps regulate arousal levels and manage stress.
• It can enhance focus and memory retention but may also be distracting.
• Common types of fidgeting include hand, foot, and whole-body movements.
• Use quiet, unobtrusive fidget tools and set clear boundaries to minimize distractions.

References:

[1] Don’t Feel Ashamed of Your Tendency to Fidget
[2] The surprising science of fidgeting
[3] Why Fidgeting Isn’t Just an ADHD Symptom
[4] How Fidgets Help Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and More
[5] Why We Fidget: It’s a Coping Mechanism, Not a Sign of Boredom
[6] The Science Behind Fidgeting
[7] Chair-based fidgeting and energy expenditure
[8] Harness Fidgeting to Improve Focus
[9] Fidgets and ADHD: A Focus Tool or a Toy?
[10] ADHD Fidgeting: 14 Tips to Improve Focus