When you look at the list in the graphic, you might not immediately think of sleep issues
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But this is a great example of an integrative holistic approach that considers the whole person
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I just got back from an exciting conference that brought together both the dental profession and osteopaths (I happen to be an MD that practices osteopathy.)
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Most people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) also have a weak and/or displaced tongue.
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The good news is “oral myofunctional therapy” can reduce obstructive sleep apnea by 50%!
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That’s huge!
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As with many things, it’s great if you can get 1:1 therapy tailored for you
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But to get you started there are some great exercises you can do like
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>> clucking like a chicken (25 times a day)
and >>blowing your cheeks out then sucking them in to make a fishy pout
You can find many more on YouTube (such as those with De Audrey Yoon for obstructive sleep apnea)
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Your tongue is a muscle and sometimes it needs to be retrained
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It’s like tongue yoga
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The tongue and the way you breathe helps to shape the mouth, jaw, palate, sinuses
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If you’re a mouth-breather, trying breathing through your nose more often.
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>>Alternate nostril breathing (used in yoga) can also help
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If you would like more help, osteopathy can help release tension in the body to help free up the tongue
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Also, functional dentists can help with appliances like an ALF
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By being aware of holistic therapies available, you can see there are effective and gentle options available for OSA
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With love,
Dr. Dijamco
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PS - if you need help finding a myofunctional therapist, cranial osteopath, or holistic dentist near you, let me know!
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