Hello again, Welcome to our last newsletter for 2020 and what a year it has been.  A world in upheaval and life as we knew it changed with one news bulletin in March followed by many more over the ensuing months. As we look forward to the Festive Season and the opportunities awaiting us in 2021 it would be good to let go of some of the stress of 2020. It has certainly been a very stressful time for many and in many ways: personally, socially, financially, emotionally, mentally and physically. Stressors on even one of those levels manifests itself differently in each individual. As you read if you or someone you know are experiencing any of the stressors below call to make an appointment and receive 20% off when you mention this newsletter. I would like to take a moment to look at one way stress can manifest itself physically, that is via our jaw. Yes our jaw! “How on earth does that happen?” you may ask. Well let’s see how many of these questions you answer yes to:

1. Do you clench your jaw in your sleep?
2. Do you grind your teeth in your sleep?
3. Do you catch yourself clenching you teeth, in concentration, throughout your work day?
4. Do you grit your teeth to avoid an argument?

If you answered yes to any of the above then you may be experiencing a physical manifestation of stress. Yes there are many different manifestations of stress and this is just one of them.  You could try this for yourself: clench your teeth then notice where else you feel tension in your body. So why did I choose to focus on stress presenting via our jaw?  Well long-time clenching and or grinding of your teeth creates wear and tear on the teeth and within the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), that is, our jaw joint. When this happens it is known as TMJ Disorder. You may begin to feel discomfort in the joint itself. When you hear a clicking in your jaw it is a sign that the joint is not moving correctly and may be a result of all the clenching and or grinding of the teeth due to stress or injury. The TMJ is very close to our ears as well and if there is inflammation in the jaw then it may be felt in the ear too and even lead to headaches, neck and shoulder discomfort and more. If you would like some more information about the TMJ you can click this link for an animated explanation of how the TMJ works. It is a bit technical but very informative. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dd3aT9c_08M Of course if you have any issues with your teeth or jaw your first port of call may need to be your Dentist or Doctor. When it comes to helping relax and ease the stressors causing these issues then Bowen Therapy may assist.  Helping the body relax and reduce stress goes a long way to easing tension in the body, which includes in the TMJ and surrounding areas. If you or someone you know is experiencing discomfort and or pain in the TMJ (jaw) or surrounding areas and you want relief then you might consider the gentle, effective and non-invasive body work that is Bowen Therapy. At Bowen Health Therapy we are here to help where possible. Remember mention this newsletter when you call to receive 20% off your appointment. Now with two rooms available for existing clients. Call Katrina on: 0438148842 Wishing you a very happy and peaceful festive season and a brighter, happier 2021. Kind regards and take care Katrina