Initial fatigue is a normal and expected response when you first begin mewing. Mewing, popularized by orthodontists John and Mike Mew, involves maintaining proper tongue posture by resting the entire tongue, including the back third, against the roof of the mouth (palate). This technique aims to make this posture the default, engaging muscles that have previously been underutilized. The resulting tired feeling, often described as a dull ache under the chin or at the base of the tongue, signals that these muscles are being worked.
The Anatomy of Mewing and Normal Fatigue
The tiring sensation is directly connected to the sustained effort required by specific muscles. Mewing requires a prolonged, steady holding of the tongue against the palate, resulting in an isometric contraction of the suprahyoid muscles. This group, including the mylohyoid and geniohyoid, elevates and stabilizes the hyoid bone and the tongue.
For individuals who habitually breathe through their mouth or let their tongue rest low, these suprahyoid muscles are often underdeveloped. Sustaining this new posture engages these weak muscles in a static hold, similar to a plank exercise, which quickly leads to fatigue. This sustained muscular effort causes a temporary buildup of metabolic byproducts, like lactic acid, within the tissue.
This metabolic buildup signals that the muscle is approaching its limit, manifesting as a burning or tired sensation. This fatigue is a positive sign that muscle fibers are being stimulated and are beginning the adaptation process. As these muscles strengthen over time, the effort will become less conscious and the fatigue will diminish.
Recognizing Signs of Harmful Strain
While a tired feeling is normal, it must be distinguished from sensations indicating harmful strain or incorrect technique. Normal fatigue presents as a generalized, dull ache or muscle soreness that decreases with rest and improves over a few weeks. This is distinct from sharp pain, which warns that the applied force is excessive or improperly directed.
Harmful strain often involves the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Symptoms of TMJ strain include sharp pain in the jaw joint, clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth. Tensing the chewing muscles (masseters) or clenching the teeth may also lead to tension headaches or pain in the cheeks. If these negative signs occur, stop the practice and consider consulting a dental professional or a myofunctional therapist.
Adjusting Technique for Comfort and Consistency
The goal of mewing is to achieve an effortless, automatic posture, not a constant, strenuous workout. To mitigate excessive fatigue and prevent strain, focus on practicing in short, manageable intervals rather than attempting to hold the posture constantly. Beginners should start with short sessions throughout the day, gradually increasing the duration as muscle endurance improves.
The most effective way to transition to an effortless posture is by mastering the “suction hold.” This technique creates a vacuum seal that passively holds the entire tongue against the palate with minimal muscular input. Achieving the suction hold minimizes the continuous isometric contraction that causes tiring, allowing the tongue to rest correctly without straining the suprahyoid muscles.
A common error that increases fatigue is pressing the tongue against the front teeth, which is incorrect placement. The correct posture should feel like the tongue is “glued” to the roof of the mouth, with the tip resting just behind the upper front teeth on the palate’s ridge. Ensuring your lips are lightly sealed and breathing through your nose also helps maintain the tongue’s position and reduces strain.