Jaw Release Exercise
Materials Needed:
To Support Feeling:
Overwhelmed
How to Do It
Place your fingertips on the hinges of your jaw (just below your ears) and gently massage in circular motions. As you do this, open and close your mouth slowly, paying attention to any tension in the area.
Why It Works
Jaw release exercises are effective for stress relief as they alleviate muscle tension often caused by anxiety and prolonged clenching, promoting relaxation in both the jaw and surrounding areas. By releasing tension in the jaw, individuals can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, facilitating deeper breathing and a sense of calm. Additionally, these exercises facilitate the release of pent-up emotions linked to stress, leading to a greater sense of emotional freedom and overall well-being.
Guided Practice
Sit or stand in a position where you feel relaxed and at ease. Bring your awareness to your jaw and the space around it. You might notice a sense of tightness or tension, or maybe a feeling of softness. Allow yourself to simply observe these sensations, without any need to change or release anything. Just be here, noticing.
Gently massage the muscles around your jaw, using slow, circular motions. Notice the sensations—perhaps a slight ache, a tingling sensation, or a release of tension. As you continue to massage, imagine each stroke loosening the tightness in your jaw, allowing it to relax completely. Visualize the tension melting away like wax softening under gentle heat. You might see images of familiar situations where you clench your jaw, or notice beliefs or patterns about holding tension here. Allow yourself to explore these fully, staying present with the sensations. Allow this exercise to help you become more aware of where you hold tension and why. Perhaps you notice a sense of relief as you release the tightness, or feel a deeper understanding of how stress affects your body. Allow yourself to stay with these feelings, using the exercise to deepen your awareness of your own tension patterns. When you feel ready, let your hands rest and take a few more deep breaths, allowing your jaw to remain relaxed. Notice how your body feels now—whether there is a sense of ease, lightness, or perhaps a renewed connection to your own relaxation. Allow yourself to stay with this feeling for a few more moments, enjoying the sensation of release. When you are ready, gently open your eyes, carrying this sense of relaxation and awareness with you into your day.