Face yoga is a gentle way to become more aware of your facial muscles and to release the tension we all carry. Below are four simple techniques you can do at home in a few minutes. Move slowly, keep the pressure light and stop if anything hurts. Results vary, and research on visible changes is still limited, so think of this as a calming practice.
1. Forehead Smoother
Press your shoulders down and raise one arm over your head so your fingertips rest on your temple. Apply slight pressure with the fingertips, tilt your head toward the opposite shoulder and keep the chest open. Exhale slowly through the mouth. To go further, extend the other arm out at a 45-degree angle and stick the tongue out as you breathe out. Repeat on the other side. This stretch helps release tension in the frontalis, the forehead muscle.
2. Neck Stretch
Purse your lips to one side as far as is comfortable so you feel the stretch in the cheek. Turn your head to that side and tilt it up to about 45 degrees, feeling the stretch along the neck. Hold for three seconds and repeat on both sides.
3. Temple Stretch
Rest your palms on your temples and glide them gently up and back. Open the mouth into an "O" and lower the jaw to lengthen the face. Hold for five seconds and repeat twice. Many people find it relaxing and it can feel refreshing after a long day at a screen.
4. Eye Area Release
Use the same arm position as the Forehead Smoother. Place your ring finger at the outer corner of the eyebrow and another finger on the temple, and keep that position throughout the movement. Check your form in a mirror and use very light pressure around the eyes.
Train with care
- Keep your skin and muscles supported with your hands so you do not scrunch or create strain.
- If you have had injectables or surgery, or have a facial nerve, jaw or skin condition, check with a doctor first.
See more moves in Face yoga exercises by area, learn the muscles in the Facial Muscle Dictionary, or start with the Face Yoga guide.
