Psychology says people who shake their legs while talking aren't rude or impatient: They may be trying to regulate energy without realizing it

There is one habit almost everyone has noticed. You are having a conversation with someone, and underneath the table, their leg never stops moving. Sometimes it bounces rapidly. Sometimes it shakes gently without them even noticing. Many people immediately jump to conclusions. They assume the person is nervous, impatient, bored or eager to leave. But psychology suggests the explanation is often much deeper than that. In many cases, leg shaking is simply the body's way of regulating energy and maintaining balance. In fact, millions of people do it without consciously realizing it. Psychology suggests this tiny movement may reveal fascinating things about how the brain manages stress, attention and everyday stimulation.

Here is what may actually be happening.