Grinding & Clenching
Understanding the Cause, the Impact, and the Power of Relaxation
At House of Ikigai, we recognise that true wellbeing begins with ease in the body, in the breath, and even in the smallest, often unnoticed muscles of the face and jaw. One of the most common yet overlooked sources of discomfort and tension is bruxism: the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth.
Why We Grind & Clench?
Grinding and clenching rarely happen “for no reason.” They are often the body’s physical response to emotional or physiological stress. Common contributing factors include:
• *Stress and anxiety* causing the jaw to tighten unconsciously
• *Poor posture*, especially from long hours at a desk
• *Misalignment* or bite imbalance
• *Sleep disturbances*, including sleep apnea
• *Overactive or hypertonic facial and jaw muscles*
In many cases, the body is simply stuck in a cycle of tension—one that the mind may not even be aware of.
The Effect on the Body & Mind
Bruxism can slowly create a ripple effect that impacts daily comfort, sleep quality, and long-term health. Left unaddressed, it may lead to:
• Persistent jaw tension or pain
• Headaches or migraines
• Neck and shoulder tightness
• Tooth sensitivity or wear
• Disrupted or poor-quality sleep
• A sense of internal “restlessness” or inability to fully relax
The jaw is one of the strongest muscles in the body, and when it holds tension, it can influence the entire nervous system keeping the body in a low-grade fight-or-flight state.
Relaxing the Muscles: A Path to Relief
At House of Ikigai, we take a *holistic, body-centred approach* to easing the effects of grinding and clenching. By gently releasing the overactive muscles responsible for jaw tension—such as the masseter, temporalis, and surrounding facial muscles—we help reset the body’s natural balance.
Muscle-relaxing treatments can:
• Reduce the force of clenching and grinding
• Ease tension in the jaw, face, neck, and head
• Improve the ability to rest, sleep, and regulate stress
• Protect the teeth from excessive pressure
• Restore a sense of calm, softness, and spaciousness in the body
This approach does not “freeze” or immobilise the muscles; rather, it allows them to unwind and function without strain. Most clients begin to notice reduced tension, improved comfort, and a renewed connection to their sense of wellbeing.
A Gentler Way Forward
Whether you’re dealing with constant jaw tightness, waking with headaches, or simply curious about why your body feels tense, our goal is to help you reconnect with ease. At House of Ikigai, treatments are personalised, restorative, and grounded in the belief that wellbeing is a practice—not a quick fix.
When your muscles relax, your whole self can follow.
Let us help you create that space.
How much does it cost?
A fixed price for this treatment is available following an initial consultation.