...Inside the mouth?

One of my favorite things that I offer is work inside the mouth.

Yup. Inside the mouth.

Why would I want to do that?

There are a number of reasons. Firstly, there are aspects of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that you simply can’t access from the outside. These structures are just as important in the balance and function of the jaw and throat, and if there are restrictions present, releasing them will yield good results. If you are someone who deals with headaches, jaw pain, or chronic neck issues, working inside the mouth is incredibly beneficial.

Secondly, when you work with the hard palate, you are touching the brain. The hard palate gives you indirect access to the body of the sphenoid, the beautiful pterodactyl shaped bone behind your eyes.

The sphenoid comes in contact with the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, and is quite close to the cerebellum, midbrain, and brain stem. It also cradles the pituitary gland, which is a bit of a boss as far as your endocrine (hormonal) system goes. Treating, especially concussion, can be easier if I have greater access to the tissues involved. If my primary focus with a client is shutting down sympathetic overdrive, work inside the mouth can also help balance the nervous system and keep excessive responses in check.

Thirdly, the mouth is part of how we communicate. Dr. John Upledger, one of the forefathers of craniosacral therapy and co-founder of the Upledger Institute, called the mouth and throat the “avenue of expression”.

In chakra land, a place I have grown to love, the fifth chakra (vishuddha) is located at the throat. Vishuddha’s domain is that of communication and sincere self expression. Opening this area can truly facilitate speaking your truth, finding your purpose, and discovering a more authentic way of living.