Are you looking for ways to improve your oral health beyond brushing and flossing? Believe it or not, practicing yoga can have beneficial effects on your mouth! Here are some ways that yoga can contribute to a healthier mouth.
Firstly, yoga is a great stress reliever. Stress can lead to inflammation throughout the body, including in the mouth. By reducing stress, you can help manage inflammation and promote better gum health. Yoga has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress, making it a great tool for stress management.
Secondly, yoga can improve circulation throughout the body, including in the gums. Certain yoga poses encourage blood flow to the head and face, which can bring fresh oxygen and nutrients to the gums. Improved circulation can promote healthier gum tissue, which can prevent gum disease.
Thirdly, certain breathing exercises in yoga can help strengthen the muscles in the mouth and throat. Strengthening these muscles can lead to better breathing patterns, which can promote a healthier mouth. By breathing more deeply and mindfully, you can improve your overall oral health.
Lastly, some yoga poses can help improve posture, which can have ripple effects throughout the body - including in the mouth. Poor posture can lead to tension in the neck and jaw, which can contribute to conditions like TMJ disorder. Certain yoga poses, like the "mountain" pose, can help improve posture and relieve tension in the neck and jaw.
Incorporating yoga into your routine can be a great way to promote overall health and wellness, including in your mouth. While practicing yoga alone won't be enough to keep your mouth healthy, it can complement your regular oral hygiene routine. So why not try some yoga poses and breathing exercises to help keep your mouth healthy? Your mind and body will thank you!