Why Is My Body Always Tense? Understanding the Physical Side of Anxiety

By Dr. Shruti Surya

You may be used to thinking of anxiety as something that lives in your mind—racing thoughts, worry spirals, or that overwhelming sense of “what if.” But for many people, anxiety shows up just as strongly—if not more so—in the body.

If you’re constantly clenching your jaw, holding your breath, or carrying tension in your shoulders or gut… you’re not broken, and you’re definitely not alone.

These are all common physical symptoms of anxiety, and your body is trying its best to protect you.

Anxiety Isn’t Just Mental—It’s Biological

When we feel unsafe, overwhelmed, or emotionally threatened, our nervous system reacts as if we’re in danger—even if there’s no physical threat present. This can trigger the fight, flight, or freeze response. Our body floods with adrenaline and cortisol. Muscles tense. Breathing gets shallow. Digestion slows down.

You might experience:

• Jaw clenching or grinding teeth
• Tight shoulders, neck, or chest
• Butterflies or knots in your stomach
• Nausea or digestive issues
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Insomnia or restless sleep
• Rapid heart rate or shallow breathing

These symptoms are real. They’re not “just in your head.” They’re your body’s way of responding to prolonged stress—even if you’re doing everything you can to stay calm on the outside.

Why This Becomes Chronic

Sometimes anxiety is situational. But for many people, especially those with a history of trauma, burnout, or chronic stress, the nervous system stays “on guard.” Over time, tension and discomfort become a new normal—your body forgets how to truly relax.

You may start asking yourself:

• Why am I always tired but wired?
• Why can’t I relax, even when nothing’s wrong?
• Why does my body feel like it’s bracing for something?

These are important questions—and therapy can help you start answering them.

How Therapy Can Help Your Body Feel Safe Again

In therapy, we don’t just talk—we pay attention to what your body is telling us too.

I use an integrative, trauma-informed approach that blends cognitive tools with somatic awareness, so we can work with both the anxious thoughts and the tension in your body. You’ll learn how to:

• Recognize what your body is trying to communicate
• Build skills to calm your nervous system
• Release stored tension gently, at your own pace
• Reconnect with parts of yourself you’ve had to shut down

You don’t have to “push through” the discomfort forever. Healing isn’t just possible—it’s something your body already knows how to do. Therapy can help you remember.

Ready to Feel at Home in Your Body Again?

If the physical symptoms of anxiety are wearing you down, I’d love to support you. I offer online therapy throughout Texas, and our first consultation is free. No pressure—just a chance to talk.