Tongue in Cheek

The tongue is one of the strongest muscles in the body and considered a very important organ for diagnosis in Chinese Medicine. It sits in the mouth, a large opening of the body that leads into and past the voice box, down the esophagus, and through many important organs, out the other end. In effect, we can consider the tongue to be a gatekeeper of everything that passes into the body through the mouth; it protects our most vulnerable innards from outside influences. The food we ingest is both tasted and digested with the help of the tongue. And of course, the tongue is necessary to form all the sounds of our language.

The tongue may also serve the role of "trap door" determining what leaves the body as well. Anything that arises within us may in effect be stopped by the tongue as we attempt to "swallow our feelings" or "keep our thoughts to ourselves". Herein lies the healing work to be done. By starting a conversation with out tongue and exploring our habitual holding patterns, we can begin to access congealed emotions and expressions that are negatively impacting our health and well-being.

So, let's give the tongue a break with a healing meditation. Sit down in front of a mirror. Begin by warming up the tongue sticking it out while opening the mouth wide as in "ahh". Then bring the tip of the tongue as close to the nose as possible in a nice stretch, then try to touch your chin with it in the same manner. Next, while keeping your tongue out, move the tongue from left to right. And finally, make a complete circle or two (this last one can get pretty messy!).

Now that the tongue has stretched and relaxed a bit, open your mouth and gaze down your throat in the mirror. Notice the role your tongue plays. Raise it up to your soft palate and feel its strength and protection. Pull it down as in yawning and feel the vulnerability. Just notice and pay attention to your experience. Now, let your tongue know that it can take a much needed rest. With your tongue relaxed in your mouth and your mouth open wide but comfortable, begin to tone on an exhalation. Don't worry about how you sound. You may feel a little silly, but go deeper. Allow for anything to escape. Intend to release whatever may be hiding out down there.

I use this exercise with my vocal meditation clients, and it had never failed to provoke an unexpected and deep healing. Sounds of anger, sounds of joy and laughter, and tears are just some of the responses that arise. It releases a tremendous amount of energy and prepares the way for all the work that follows.