The Surprising Role of the Tongue in Reducing Pain, Increasing Strength & Supporting our Nervous System

When we think about health and wellness, the tongue may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, this small, powerful muscle plays a surprisingly crucial role in our overall well-being. From its connection to the vagus nerve to its impact on breathing, neck muscles, and even strength, the tongue has a significant influence on how we feel, breathe, and manage stress. Let’s explore how the tongue contributes to our physical and emotional health, and why it deserves more attention in somatic therapy.

The Power of the Tongue on Health & Wellness: It’s More Than Just Taste 🍲🗣️

The tongue is a highly sensitive and powerful muscle responsible for more than just tasting food or aiding in speech. It has deep connections to various muscles, nerves, and systems in the body, all of which can impact our health. Its position, tone, and movement can either promote relaxation or contribute to tension, making it a critical area to consider in somatic practices.

The Connection Between the Tongue and the Vagus Nerve 🧠🌬️

One of the most fascinating aspects of the tongue and how it plays into our health and wellness is through its connection to the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve, often called the “wandering nerve,” is a major part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls our “rest and digest” functions. When the vagus nerve is activated, it signals the body to relax, slow down the heart rate, and reduce stress.

The tongue can stimulate the vagus nerve through certain movements and positions, creating a calming effect throughout the body. Simple exercises, such as pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth or performing slow, deliberate movements, can help to relax the nervous system, improve breathing, and promote a sense of calm. This is why tongue exercises are sometimes included in somatic therapy practices to aid in stress relief and overall relaxation.

The Tongue’s Impact on Neck Muscles and Tension 💆‍♀️🦴

The tongue is intricately connected to muscles in the neck and jaw. When the tongue is tense or positioned incorrectly, it can create a ripple effect of tension that extends into the neck, shoulders, and even down the back. For example, when the tongue rests at the bottom of the mouth or presses too tightly against the front teeth, it can lead to a misalignment that strains the neck muscles, causing discomfort and tightness. This ultimately negatively effects our health and wellness.

On the other hand, when the tongue rests gently against the roof of the mouth, just behind the front teeth, it helps align the jaw and relax the neck muscles. This proper positioning can relieve tension and support a more natural, open posture, allowing the entire body to move more freely.

Negative Effects on Health & Wellness Due to Misalignment of the Tongue 🌬️🫁

Incorrect tongue positioning can do more than just create tension—it can disrupt breathing. When the tongue is misaligned, it can block the airway, making it harder to breathe efficiently through the nose. This often leads to mouth breathing, which can be shallow and rapid, triggering the body’s stress response.

Correcting tongue alignment has helped many individuals avoid unnecessary surgical interventions for symptoms like sleep apnea and snoring. By learning to reposition the tongue against the roof of the mouth, some people have been able to resolve these issues without the need for surgery. Proper tongue placement can promote clear, smooth nasal breathing, which is essential for maintaining calm and balanced physiological states.

The Tongue’s Role in Creating a Sense of Safety 🧠❤️

Proper tongue placement doesn’t just affect physical alignment; it also helps the brain feel safe. When the tongue is in its correct position against the roof of the mouth, it sends signals to the brain that everything is in alignment. This subtle feedback creates a sense of stability and calm, promoting relaxation throughout the body. When the brain feels safe, it allows us to navigate stress, emotions, and physical challenges with greater ease and resilience.

Enhancing Strength Through Tongue Positioning 🏋️‍♀️💪

Research has shown that pressing the tongue firmly against the roof of the mouth can actually increase strength. This may be surprising, but the tongue’s connection to the muscles in the neck, jaw, and even the core plays a role in stabilizing the body. By engaging the tongue in this way, it activates and aligns deeper muscle groups, leading to improved physical performance and strength. This is a simple yet powerful technique that can be integrated into exercise routines or everyday activities for an added boost.

Reconnecting With the Tongue Through Somatic Therapy 🧘‍♂️💪

In somatic therapy, the tongue is often seen as a gateway to reconnecting with the body. Since it influences so many systems, paying attention to the tongue can help individuals become more aware of how they hold tension and stress. Simple exercises, such as tongue stretches or gentle movements, can be effective tools for releasing built-up tension and creating a sense of ease throughout the body.

For example, “tongue circles,” where you move your tongue in a slow, circular motion along the roof of your mouth, can help release tension in the jaw and neck. Another exercise is “tongue ping pong,” where you flick your tongue from side to side, promoting relaxation of the muscles around the mouth and neck. These exercises may seem small, but they can have a significant impact on how you feel throughout the day.

Empower Your Health & Wellness with Tongue Techniques on the EmpowerYou App 🧘‍♀️✨

Did you know that strategic tongue exercises can help recreate new neural pathways in the brain, enhancing your ability to manage stress and release muscle tension throughout the body? EmpowerYou offers guided tongue exercises designed to do just that, supporting your journey toward greater comfort, mobility, and vitality.

Explore these practices through the EmpowerYou app, where you can follow easy-to-implement tongue exercises as part of a broader wellness routine. Or, work 1:1 with me to dive deeper into personalized strategies that address your unique needs. Whether you’re looking to reduce tension, improve strength, or reconnect with your body, EmpowerYou has the tools to help you on your path to lasting wellness.

Practical Tips for Increasing Our Health & Wellness Using the Tongue 🏋️‍♀️👄

If you’re looking to improve your health and wellness through better tongue practices, here are a few simple tips to try:

1. Practice Proper Tongue Positioning: Rest your tongue gently against the roof of your mouth, just behind your front teeth. This can help align your jaw and promote relaxation in the neck muscles.
2. Focus on Nasal Breathing: Aim to breathe through your nose as much as possible. This will naturally support proper tongue placement and help you maintain a calm, steady breathing pattern.
3. Try Tongue Exercises: Incorporate exercises like tongue circles, tongue ping pong, and gentle tongue stretches to release tension and improve muscle tone.
4. Stay Hydrated: A dry mouth can lead to tongue tension. Keep yourself hydrated to promote a relaxed, flexible tongue.

Why the Tongue Deserves More Attention in Health & Wellness ✨💖

The tongue is a small but mighty muscle that influences so many aspects of our health and wellness. From activating the vagus nerve to relieving tension in the neck, stabilizing the body, and supporting efficient breathing, it plays a critical role in how we feel and move. By paying more attention to the tongue’s position and practicing simple exercises, we can unlock a new level of relaxation, strength, and overall well-being.

If you’re ready to explore how tongue health can enhance your life, check out the EmpowerYou app for guided exercises or reach out to work 1:1 with me. Together, we’ll help you reconnect with your body, release tension, and support lasting wellness.