As the sun begins its descent behind the dense umbrella of evergreens, and the unbroken sound of the babbling brook sings the harmony of the universe, alone I sit on the wooden deck, ladling words of wisdom and wellbeing from the limitless still waters of my mind. Undeniably, the rejuvenation of the body and mind dwell deep in the gap between thoughts, where the murmurs of the soul echo incessantly. Today, we delve into remedying the common yet seldom spoken of malady, the pangs of the sore Levator Anguli Oris, a tiny but mighty muscle working diligently in the theatre of our countenance.
Recognizing the levator anguli oris, the muscle stretching from the jaw towards the mouth's corner and upper bone of the eye socket, is the first step towards healing. This musculature's finite dance is behind the potent act of uplifting your cheeks, aiding you in painting the canvas of the world with your glowing smile. However, when this powerful performer throbs in discomfort, the cosmic ballet of our facial expressions is interrupted, casting a shadow on our sunny disposition.
Fear not, beloved sisters of path and purpose. Our trusted ally, Yoga, the ancient art of harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit, offers the balm for our strained levator anguli oris. The benefits of certain asanas, or postures, in relieving muscle strain and tension are vast, as infinite as the cosmos which we mirror within ourselves. Specifically, we direct our focus on the four main neck and jaw exercises known as Simhasana (Lion Pose), Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Jalandhara Bandha (Chin Lock), and the Sukhasana (Easy Pose) with Anjali Mudra (Salutation Seal).
Simhasana, the Lion Pose, is especially beneficial in releasing jaw tension. Like the fearless lion roaring in the wilderness, discover your primal strength, part your lips wide, stick your tongue out, and release an audible 'haaaa'. This holistic reverberation diminishes the strain in your Levator Anguli Oris, restoring the joyful song of your laughter.
Next, as you gracefully slide into the Bhujangasana or Cobra Pose, visualize the energy of the universe flowing into your strained muscles, healing and nourishing them. The gentle stretch of your neck will directly affect the levator anguli oris, easing the tension and enhancing your potential for smiles.
Our journey then takes us to the Jalandhara Bandha or the Chin Lock. In this pose, you rest your chin on your chest, elongating the back of your neck. The gentle pressure around your jaw and cheeks nurtures the levator anguli oris, thus encouraging further release of tension.
Ultimately, find tranquility in the Sukhasana with Anjali Mudra. As you sit with legs crossed, the pressing of palms together in front of your heart, the peace of the universe enfolds your muscle strain, leaving your spirit and body revitalized.
In addition to the abovementioned yoga asanas, let the healing wisdom of Mother Nature envelop you. Cast your eyes around our vibrant retreat, observe the verdant blossoms, drink in their essence, and you attain the beautiful knowledge that these aromatic beings house the cure to your discomfort.
Ginger, that radiant, fiery root whispers the remedy for your affliction. Grate a healthy piece, and apply the juice directly on your cheeks. Feel the warm embrace of this natural healer calming the agitation in your levator anguli oris. Alternately, tuck into a fire-warmed cup of chamomile, nature’s potent muscle relaxant, and sense the calm flood your strained muscle, instilling a serenity as sweeping and wide as the azure endlessness above us.
Tales of holistic healing have passed down generations like sacred scripts. In every murmuring leaf and whispering wind, the secrets of wellness resonate. A yogic life, embraced in the bosom of nature, guides us into these sacred whispers, helping us find remedies within ourselves and around us. So, my radiant sisters, the next time you sense the rebellion of your levator anguli oris, remember: the solution and the seeker are bound in a symbiotic dance within you. The journey to healing is merely a divine revelation of it. Namaste.
