WHEN THE JAW HOLDS THE PERFORMANCE: The “biting down” response

Under emotional pressure, many performers unconsciously begin to bite down.

The masseter and temporalis increase their activity. The mandible becomes less mobile. The tongue may become less adaptable. Muscles around the hyoid and anterior neck can begin participating unnecessarily in stabilization.

At the same time, breathing may become higher or more restricted.

None of these responses necessarily represents pathology.

They can simply be part of the body's attempt to create stability during an intense task.

The problem begins when stabilization becomes over-stabilization.

An actress may still deliver the scene successfully, but the physical cost of producing it becomes progressively higher.

The voice may feel less available.

The neck may begin to work harder.

Articulation may become less spontaneous.

Facial movement may become subtly restricted.

And the emotional impulse may have to pass through increasing layers of muscular resistance before reaching the voice.

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Valentina Carlile - Osteopath specializing in Osteopathy for Voice and Speech Disorders since 2002. For information and bookings, visit the Contact page.

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