Many people who suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJD, may find that their stress is causing them more complications and pain as they clench their jaws or even grind their teeth at night. Learning to manage stress can help alleviate some of the symptoms of TMJ disorder naturally. Here are a few tips to try to integrate into your daily routine for stress relief.
Deep Breathing
When you’re stressed or anxious, if you stop and focus on your breath, you may realize your breaths are shorter and more rapid than normal. Take a few minutes to sit up straight or lie back and breathe deeply and slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth.
Meditate
According to research, even just a few minutes of meditation a day can help reduce anxiety and stress levels. It may take some practice to feel comfortable meditating, but there are many apps on the market today to help you learn how to master it in the comfort of your own home.
Take a Hot Bath
For many people, enjoying warm water and low lights while relaxing in the bathtub can help calm their mind and ease their stress and anxiety. Those with chronic stress may find this a welcome addition to their nighttime routine to slowly relax their body and mind into a peaceful mode for sleep.
Exercise
Even though time management may be part of your stress, research shows exercise is a great stress reliever. It doesn’t have to be a two-hour visit to the gym, either. Simply moving your body with a walk, run or yoga practice for 30 minutes a day can greatly improve stress levels and anxiety.
Listen to Music
There’s a reason music is used as a therapy for both humans and animals. Research has actually been conducted that shows lower heart rate, lower blood pressure and lower anxiety levels as a result of listening to soothing music. Build a playlist of music that relaxes you and listen to it during the most stressful parts of your day.
For more stress-relief tips or to schedule a consultation about TMJ disorder, call our office today at 425-212-1975.
