Like all animals,we as human beings have evolved ways to help us protect ourselves from danger and external threats. When we feel under threat, our bodies react by releasing certain hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can be helpful. These hormones:

• make us feel aware and alert, so at the point of danger, we can react more appropriately

• make our hearts beat faster, quickly sending blood to where it's needed most.

After we feel the threat has passed and we feel safe again, our bodies release other hormones to help our muscles relax. This can sometimes cause us to shake.

This is commonly called the 'fight, flight or freeze' response – it's something that happens automatically in our bodies, and we have no control over it.