We all know stress can take a toll on our bodies, but what if something as simple as sticking your tongue out could help you relax?
A viral wellness tip has been making rounds online after a patient shared an unusual exercise recommended by a neurologist from Mount Sinai. The instruction was simple: stick your tongue out for 40 seconds every day.
At first, he thought it sounded ridiculous.
"There's no way this is real," he reportedly said.
However, a few weeks later, his cortisol levels had reportedly dropped from 23 mcg/dL, a level associated with high stress and anxiety, to 14 mcg/dL, which falls within the normal range. While individual results can vary and more research is needed, the story has sparked curiosity about how tension in the body may affect stress levels.
Is Your Neck Holding Onto Stress?
According to the theory behind the exercise, many people carry stress in their neck, jaw, and facial muscles without even realising it.
When these areas remain tense for long periods, it may become harder for the body to switch out of "fight-or-flight" mode and enter a more relaxed state.
Your Brain Stays On High Alert
Tight muscles around the neck and jaw may continue sending signals that keep your nervous system on guard, making it difficult to fully unwind.
Stress Hormones Keep Circulating
Prolonged muscle tension may contribute to ongoing stress responses, encouraging the continued release of cortisol, often referred to as the body's primary stress hormone.
Your Body Struggles To Switch Off
The vagus nerve, which plays an important role in relaxation and recovery, runs through the neck region. Some experts believe that releasing tension in surrounding muscles may help support the body's ability to calm down.
Why 40 Seconds?
Supporters of the technique believe the timing plays an important role.
Under 30 Seconds
This may be too short for the muscles to fully relax and release built-up tension.
30 To 45 Seconds
This is considered the "sweet spot" where the muscles may begin to loosen and reset.
Over 40 Seconds
Holding the position longer may encourage the body to settle into a more relaxed state and help ease lingering tension.
How To Try It Yourself
Curious to see if it works for you? Here's how:
1. Get Comfortable
Sit upright in a comfortable position and allow your shoulders to relax.
2. Stick Your Tongue Out
Extend your tongue as far as you comfortably can while continuing to breathe normally through your nose.
3. Hold For 40 Seconds
Maintain the position for 40 seconds, then rest for one minute. Repeat for a total of three rounds.
4. Make It A Daily Habit
Many people prefer doing it in the morning before the day's stress begins, while others find it helpful before bedtime.
Consistency Matters
Like most wellness habits, one session isn't likely to produce dramatic results overnight.
The idea is to practise regularly and give your body time to adapt.
Skip A Few Days
You may notice tension gradually returning as daily stress builds up again.
Stick With It
Over time, consistent practice may help your body become more accustomed to relaxing and releasing tension. Think of it as a simple daily reset for your nervous system.
While the 40-second tongue exercise isn't a miracle cure for stress, its simplicity makes it an easy technique to try. At the very least, it serves as a reminder to check in with your body, release built-up tension, and take a moment to slow down in an increasingly stressful world.
