I was getting daily head pain that hung around for hours - right behind my eyes. I used my Deep Relief Roll-On and M-Grain Essential Oil blends generously. They helped, but I still needed some OTC stuff to get through the work day. This went on for weeks. I thought it was stress. I thought I was suffering with insomnia from perimenopause (might have played a role). I was hoping it was not something shockingly serious that I needed a specialist for. I couldn't figure out why it was happening, but I needed to solve the issue and fast!
I visited the eye doctor thinking my prescription needed a tweak - it did - but she asked me if I was grinding my teeth in my sleep. Maybe? I wasn't sure, but she had a strong suspicion that I was since I also cracked a molar - still need to get that fixed. Totally eye opening visit (pun intended).
After a bit of googling, I came up with the name of my adversary - Bruxism - and a few easy solutions to try for some quick relief.
1. The first thing that I figured out, is that when I notice myself clenching my teeth during the day, I can put my tongue behind my top teeth and that automatically releases my jaw. This is amazing to do when driving in traffic, when feeling pressure at work or anytime I feel tense or wound up. I can also tweak this as, "lips together and teeth apart." Both of these can be done in the presence of others without looking like you are yawning or just a goofball.
2. Secondly, I started going to yoga 3 times per week, rather than just once. These practices help me dial into my emotions and then release my body and mind. We use yogic breathing to relax, and anchor concentration and mindfulness to further release unnecessary tension. Another technique is to breathe in the nose and out the mouth. These targeted breathing exercises are extremely useful to bring your mind back to the present moment, thereby pushing the stressful parts of your life to the curb - for now at least (go listen to episode 7 of the phoodcast for more info on this.). There are tons of videos on YouTube and apps to get you started with breathing techniques and meditation. Let me know if you want any specific ideas on what I use. I also use a special Essential Oil blend during my yoga practices. It helps me focus on the now and stay centered. My monkey mind can relax too. I put the recipe at the bottom of this post. I'm happy to namaste the world!
3. Thirdly, I got a mouth guard. Just a drug store one to start with to try to see if I found any relief before visiting the dentist for the big mamma jamma (and a crown-ugh). This one works great for me. I like that I didn't have to boil it to fit snug against my teeth. It is comfortable - well, after the first night of feeling like a linebacker - and its adjustable to different mouth sizes. I woke up the first morning after using it WITH NO HEAD TENSION! Now, I just use it a few times a week when I feel more stress than usual.
I'm wishing you all the best if you suffer from Bruxism. It's not anything you have to live with. There are many ways to alleviate the pain and fast - don't forget about your relaxing essential oils! I'm a walking testimonial. I want you to feel vibrant, energetic and happy each and every day!
Please do let me know if you are ready to get started with Young Living Essential Oils. Here's my link so that you can get your own Wellness Kit and stress relieving products. Please know that I'm all about caring, sharing and education and I'll reach out to you right away to discuss what you want to learn about oils and how to use them in your life. Non-toxic living starts with bringing the best possible quality products into your home and using them fully. That's how we can all LIVE FOR REAL!
Yoga Dreaming Essential Oil Blend
15 drops Lavender
10 drops Cedarwood
Add to a 5ml or larger bottle. I like to reuse my YL bottles and add an AromaGlide Roller Fitment. They fit snug and don't leak! Roll on or add a few drops to your hands or a diffuser bracelet or necklace before your next yoga class. Namaste!
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