Jaw release
Welcome to the fifth meditation in this Mini Somatic Series exploring the release of built-up tension in the jaw.
The jaw is one of the places where we most commonly hold stress without even realising it. During times of pressure or uncertainty, we may clench our teeth, tighten the muscles around the mouth or brace the jaw as part of our body’s protective response. Over time, this tension can contribute to headaches (even migraines), facial discomfort and a lingering sense of holding on.
The muscles of the jaw are closely connected to the vagus nerve, making this area a powerful gateway for encouraging relaxation throughout the entire body. By bringing intentional awareness and movement to the jaw, we can begin to soften unconscious patterns of tension and signal that it is safe to let go.
Throughout this series so far, we have explored presence (1/8), cultivated moments of safety (2/8), reconnected with the breath (3/8) and released built-up activation through shaking (4/8). Now, this practice invites you to gently soften the jaw and with it, create a moment of regulation for your nervous system.
Please return to this micro-moment regularly whenever you notice yourself clenching, bracing or holding tension in your face, and allow this simple practice to help you soften and reset.
Want to Go Deeper?
If you’re feeling drawn to this work and want to learn how to support the body and nervous system intentionally, application is open for my upcoming training in September.
This training is designed for practitioners, space holders, and curious humans who want to deepen their understanding of somatics, nervous system regulation, embodiment and working with the wisdom of the body.
Inside the 150h training, you’ll learn how to:
• Understand trauma through the lens of the body
• Guide clients safely through regulation and emotional release practices
• Build confidence structuring trauma-informed sequences
• Hold spaces that feel safe and deeply transformative
• Integrate somatic tools into your existing work or begin a new path entirely
“This training should be considered essential, not just for yoga teachers and bodyworkers, but for anyone because this is the most impactful and vital work you can ever do on yourself!“
– Laura, Yoga Teacher
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