Neck and Jaw Stretch
Materials Needed
Feeling
Irritated
How to Do It
Sit or stand with a straight back. Slowly tilt your head to one side, bringing your ear toward your shoulder while keeping your shoulders relaxed. As you stretch, gently open and close your jaw, feeling the stretch extend through the jawline and into the neck. Hold the stretch for a few deep breaths, then switch to the other side.
Why It Works
Stretching the neck and jaw simultaneously helps to release built-up tension in these areas, which often occurs when we’re irritated. The gentle movement of the jaw during the stretch enhances the release of tightness.
Guided Practice
Sit comfortably with your back straight. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, bringing your awareness to your neck and jaw. Notice any sensations of tension or tightness. Allow yourself to be present with these feelings, without needing to stretch just yet.
Continue sitting comfortably, as you now deepen your focus with a few more breaths. Bring your awareness to your neck and jaw area, noticing any tension or tightness that might be present. Gently tilt your head to the right, feeling a stretch along the left side of your neck. Notice how this stretch feels—perhaps a gentle pull, a soft release, or maybe a different sensation altogether.
As you hold this stretch, imagine the tension in your neck and jaw slowly melting away. Visualize any tightness as a dark cloud being gently blown away by a soft breeze. Perhaps you see images or memories associated with this tension, or feel familiar patterns of stress that often settle in these areas. Allow yourself to stay present with these sensations and explore them without judgment.
Slowly bring your head back to center and tilt it to the left, feeling a stretch along the right side of your neck. Continue to notice the sensations—perhaps there is a sense of release, a deepening stretch, or a new awareness of how tension manifests in your body. Allow yourself to explore any insights or realizations that arise as you stretch, noticing how your body feels.
When you feel ready, return your head to center and take a few more deep breaths. Notice how your neck and jaw feel now—whether there is a sense of ease, lightness, or perhaps a new understanding of where you hold tension. Allow yourself to stay with this feeling for a few more moments, enjoying the sensation of relaxation. When you are ready, gently open your eyes, carrying this sense of release and awareness with you into your day.