Jaw Drop with Sound Release
Materials Needed
Feeling
Irritated
How to Do It
Stand or sit with your shoulders relaxed. Drop your jaw as if you’re yawning, but instead of letting it close naturally, hold it in the open position. While holding, let out a low, sustained 'ah' sound, allowing the vibration to resonate through your jaw, throat, and chest. Imagine the sound carrying away your irritation. After a few seconds, close your mouth gently and take a deep breath.
Why It Works
This exercise combines jaw relaxation with vocalization, which helps to release irritation through both physical and auditory channels. The sound and vibration provide an additional layer of tension release.
Guided Practice
Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths, bringing your awareness to your jaw and mouth. Notice any sensations of tightness or tension. Allow yourself to be with these feelings, without needing to drop your jaw or release any sound just yet.
Continue sitting comfortably, as you now deepen your focus with a few more breaths. Bring your awareness to your jaw, noticing any tension or tightness that may be present. Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, allow your jaw to drop open gently, releasing any sound that feels natural to you—a sigh, a hum, or a soft "ahh." notice the sensations in your jaw as you release the sound, perhaps feeling a softening or a gentle vibration.
Continue to breathe deeply, repeating the jaw drop with sound release on each exhale. You might notice a sense of release or relaxation in your jaw, or perhaps a feeling of energy or emotion being expressed. Allow yourself to explore different sounds and movements, noticing how each release feels. Perhaps there are images or memories that come to mind as you release sound, or maybe a feeling of letting go of tension or stress. Stay with this practice, allowing your body and voice to guide the release.
As you continue, notice any changes in your body and mind. Perhaps you feel a sense of openness or relief in your jaw, neck, and shoulders, or maybe just a deeper awareness of where tension resides. Allow yourself to fully engage in this release, welcoming whatever arises without judgment. Consider how this physical release of sound might connect to emotional or mental release, noticing any insights or realizations that surface.
When you feel ready, take a final deep breath, allowing your jaw to drop and sound to release one last time. Notice how your body feels now—perhaps more relaxed, lighter, or maybe just more at ease. Allow yourself to stay in this space for a few more breaths, enjoying the sensation of release and openness. When you are ready, gently bring your awareness back to the room, taking a moment to reflect on your experience before moving on with your day.