The Position of Your Tongue Affects Your Health

— A Chiropractor's Insight into the Deep Connection Between the Tongue and Overall Well-being --

The tongue is more than just an organ for taste. In fact, it’s a mass of muscle that is closely connected to our overall health.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, the condition of the tongue reflects a person’s health and vitality. For example, a baby’s tongue is very thin, but as they begin eating/ drinking, it gradually becomes thicker. This indicates that eating plays a role in developing tongue muscles.
That’s why it’s important to change the bottle nipple appropriately.
As a chiropractor, what I pay close attention to is the position of the tongue.
The position of the tongue can actually affect not only nasal breathing, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction, and teeth grinding, but also issues such as shoulder stiffness and headaches throughout the body.
So, what exactly is the “correct tongue position”?

Ideally, it should meet the following three conditions:


What Is the Correct Tongue Position?

1. The front two-thirds of the tongue is firmly touching the palate (roof of the mouth)
2. The tip of the tongue is placed slightly behind the front teeth, not touching them
3. The upper and lower teeth are not touching—there’s a slight natural gap between them

This is what we call the proper tongue posture.

If your tongue isn't in this position, it may indicate that your tongue muscles are weak or not functioning properly.
Fortunately, since the tongue is made of muscle, you can train it!


Train Your Tongue to Achieve the Right Position
By strengthening your tongue muscles, it becomes easier to naturally maintain the correct tongue posture.
Try incorporating these simple exercises into your daily routine:


＜Tongue Muscle Exercises＞

1. Tongue Extension
   　Stick your tongue out as far as you can and hold for 5 seconds × 5 times
2. Inner Cheek Press
   　With your mouth closed, press your tongue firmly against the inside of one cheek and hold for 5 seconds × 5 times on each side
3. Tongue Circles
   　Place your tongue between your lips and front teeth and slowly move it in a circle clockwise 5 times, then counterclockwise 5 times
4. Finishing Position Check
   　Finally, press your tongue up against the correct position on the roof of your mouth and hold for 5 seconds × 5 times

By continuing these exercises daily, your tongue strength will improve, and you'll find it easier to maintain the correct position naturally.
Nasal breathing becomes easier, jaw tension is reduced, and your overall body balance can benefit as well.
Health starts with small daily habits.
Why not begin by reviewing your tongue position?