We wanted to show you a restorative massage technique for your jaw. Before we get started, let’s check in with the nature of jaw pain.
Jaw pain and stress
Jaw pain is often linked to stress. This relaxing self massage technique that can bring relief from muscular- and stress-related tension. This massage is so safe and relaxing, it is a nice way to soothe yourself even if your jaw doesn’t feel tight. 😊
Jaw tension is common and can manifest in several different ways:
- jaw pain
- clenching your jaw
- grinding your teeth
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder)
- popping or clicking when you open your mouth
- headaches
- ear pain
A few minutes of this massage will calm you, leaving your jaw warm and relaxed.
We have found that these warm-up strokes can be soothing and really help with general jaw tension before the tension becomes painful. As with all massage, we wish to do no harm. With that in mind, start with gentle pressure. Notice changes as you massage. Be patient. ⏳
And now for the massage…
Time needed: 2 minutes.
A soothing, restorative massage for jaw pain
- Place your hand on your ear. Bring your index finger back behind your ear, your other fingers sliding in front. With your fingers on the front and back of your ear, lightly glide your hand up and down over your skin.
(Or you can put two fingers behind your ear like a Vulcan greeting 🖖 if that feels more fun to you.)
- As your tissues warm up, go slightly deeper, so you are moving your skin over the bones, rather than moving your fingers over the skin.
- As you massage, your ears are moving up and down.
This movement is mobilizing and relaxing the fascia (connective tissue) from your ear to your skull. This helps loosen the fluid communication of your tissues, letting your muscles be more responsive. Imagine the thick, sticky, opaque connective tissue changing to watery, clear liquid as the tissues warm and soften.
- When you feel complete (20 seconds to 2 minutes) remove your hands. Notice the sensation in your jaw and ears.
Does your jaw feel warmer? Do your muscles feel softer now? Can you feel your circulation flowing? Does your skin feel different now that it has more flow underneath it? Do your expressions feel easier? Make note of the new sensations: even gentle massage can make a profound difference.
