Table of Contents
Introduction
Have you ever considered the tongue position within your mouth? While it naturally rests in the proper place for some individuals, others may have experienced factors in life leading to an improper tongue resting position. Incorrect tongue posture can be linked to adverse effects on facial growth and development, insufficient airway space, mouth breathing, snoring, tongue tie, sleep apnea, TMJ pain, sleep disturbances, crowded teeth, headaches, neck/shoulder tension, and various other issues.
Approximately half of the population has incorrect tongue positioning, impacting not just appearance but also health.
Recent studies indicate that improper tongue position not only affects posture but can also impact muscle strength, influencing balance and overall well-being.
Understanding Correct Tongue Placement
The ideal position for your tongue is pressed against the roof of your mouth rather than letting it “settle” at the bottom of your mouth.
In 2013, a groundbreaking study revealed that maintaining the correct tongue position during strength training could enhance strength by a remarkable 30%. Incorrect tongue placement, on the other hand, can lead to a myriad of issues, from poor posture to snoring, vision problems, and more.
Benefits of the Correct Tongue Position
- Teeth Development: Incorrect tongue placement can impede the growth of teeth, leading to crowding and misalignment. Learn how proper tongue posture can promote healthier teeth.
- Facial Shape Enhancement: Discover how maintaining the correct tongue position can lift and define facial features, providing a more attractive appearance.
- Breathing Improvement: Explore the connection between tongue position and healthy breathing. Incorrect placement can lead to narrowed airways, hindering proper respiratory function.
- Speech Clarity: Uncover the impact of tongue positioning on speech. Addressing tongue posture can be a key solution for speech defects.
- Overall Well-being: Surprisingly, tongue position influences memory, quality sleep, and posture. Learn how optimizing tongue posture contributes to a healthier lifestyle.
Exercises for Tongue Correction
Exercise 1: Suction Technique
- Press your entire tongue against the roof of your mouth using a suction motion.
- Tighten your lips and slightly open your teeth.
- Hold for several seconds, repeat multiple times daily.
Exercise 2: Swallowing Movements
- Place the tongue at its resting point and perform swallowing movements.
- Ensure muscles contract sequentially: tip, back, root.
- Repeat for 10 minutes, at least 3 times a day.
Exercise 3: Smile Technique
- Place the tongue at the resting point and smile widely.
- Keep teeth closed but not clenched.
- Stay in position for a few seconds, then perform swallowing movements.
Capture Your Progress: Profile Photos
Capture your journey by taking profile photos of your face:
- First, with the tongue freely moving or touching the lower teeth.
- Second, with the tongue firmly pressed against the upper alveoli
About Mewing
Mewing, a technique in which the tongue is placed on the roof of the mouth, is purported to make the jaw more square, improve sleep, and reduce mouth breathing. Some even claim that mewing can treat speech disorders, jaw pain, and sinusitis. The mewing technique involves touching your tongue to the roof of your mouth to create a more defined jaw look. Some experts consider that Jennifer Lopez, Bella Hadid, Kim Kardashian and Hailey Bieber are participating in the trend of mewing in their photos.
If you want to strengthen your jawline, consider these jawline exercise tools.
Conclusion
Optimising your tongue’s position is a journey towards enhanced beauty and well-being. Incorporate these exercises into your daily routine and witness the positive impact on your appearance and overall health.
Remember, In our articles, we gather the latest scientific data and opinions from experts in the field of health. However, please remember that only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.
References
- Mewing: Before and After the Jawline Defining Trick. (11.01.2024) Available at: https://www.newbeauty.com/mewing-tip/
- Effects of tongue position on mandibular muscle activity and heart rate function. (20.09.2022) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19773187/
- The acute effect of the tongue position in the mouth on knee isokinetic test performance: a highly surprising pilot study (24.02.2004) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3940506/