Believe it or not, there are many more mewing techniques than just putting your tongue against your palate.
This is why we’ll be talking all about what soft mewing is, how it works, and how to do it. Let’s get started!
Soft mewing is the well-known variation of mewing that most mewers do. Soft mewing applies gentle but constant pressure onto the palate, which aims to cause palatal expansion after a long period.
Soft Mewing vs. Hard Mewing
There are two types of mewing: soft mewing and hard mewing. Soft mewing is the standard mewing, involving gentle pressure between the tongue and the palate. It should be practiced throughout the day, maintaining consistent gentle pressure for over 23 hours.
This is the ideal tongue posture that should become second nature over time.
On the other hand, hard mewing involves applying more intense pressure between the tongue and the palate. This should only be done on specific occasions, such as during intense physical activity or when experiencing stress.
The purpose of hard mewing is to help alleviate tension in the jaw and neck muscles while still promoting proper facial posture.
This guide primarily focuses on soft mewing, the most commonly practiced form, and offers long-term benefits when done correctly.
Benefits of Soft Mewing
Soft mewing offers various potential benefits, leading to a healthier and more attractive appearance. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved facial structure: Soft mewing can help reshape the facial structure by maintaining proper tongue posture, leading to better jawline definition and facial balance.
- Better breathing: Soft mewing promotes nasal breathing, which is healthier and more efficient than mouth breathing. Nasal breathing helps to filter and warm the air, providing better oxygenation for the body.
- Reduced risk of sleep apnea: Proper tongue posture can help open up the airway, reducing the risk of sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders.
- Relief from TMJ pain: Soft mewing can help alleviate tension in the jaw muscles, reducing pain and discomfort associated with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ).
- Improved speech and swallowing: Maintaining proper tongue posture can improve oral health, including improved speech and swallowing function.
Proper Soft Mewing Technique
To perform soft mewing correctly, follow these steps:
- Close your mouth: Ensure that your lips are gently closed, with your teeth either lightly touching or slightly apart.
- Position your tongue: Place the entire surface of your tongue against the roof of your mouth, ensuring it makes complete contact with the palate.
- Apply gentle pressure: Maintain a light suction between your tongue and the palate, ensuring there is no air in between. This gentle pressure should be maintained throughout the day.
- Maintain nasal breathing: Soft mewing promotes a closed-mouth posture, which encourages nasal breathing. Make sure you’re breathing through your nose while practicing soft mewing.
- Be consistent: The key to successful soft mewing is consistency. Aim to maintain this tongue posture for over 23 hours daily, including during sleep.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While soft mewing is a relatively simple technique, there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid:
- Using too much pressure: Applying excessive pressure can lead to discomfort and may not yield the desired results. Remember, soft mewing involves gentle pressure between the tongue and the palate.
- Not engaging the entire tongue: Ensure that the entire surface of your tongue, including the back, is in contact with the palate. Failing to do so can limit the effectiveness of soft mewing.
- Mouth breathing: Soft mewing promotes nasal breathing, which is essential for maintaining proper tongue posture. Make sure you’re breathing through your nose while practicing soft mewing.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
The time it takes to notice results from soft mewing varies from person to person. Factors such as age, consistency, and individual facial structure can impact the rate at which changes occur.
Generally, younger individuals with more malleable facial structures may see results faster than older individuals. However, with consistent practice, most people can expect to see noticeable changes within a few months to a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is soft mewing safe?
A: Soft mewing is generally considered safe when practiced correctly. However, if you experience any pain or discomfort, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional.
Q: Can soft mewing fix an overbite or underbite?
A: Soft mewing can help improve facial posture and aesthetics, but it may not be a standalone solution for more severe orthodontic issues such as overbites and underbites. It’s essential to consult with an orthodontist for a comprehensive treatment plan.
Q: Can I practice soft mewing while wearing a retainer?
A: It’s best to consult with your orthodontist before practicing soft mewing while wearing a retainer, as it may impact the effectiveness of your treatment.
In conclusion, soft mewing is an effective technique for improving facial posture, breathing, and overall appearance.
You can achieve a healthier and more attractive face by consistently practicing proper tongue posture.
Remember to be patient and persistent, as results may take time.