How do I keep the face relaxed during meditation?

[Dan Arnautu]

Hi guys!

First of all Please don't say: "Just relax!".

My problem is that I feel tension around the cheeks and mouth. I don't know if I should be keeping my mouth slightly open or closed, the tongue on the roof of the mouth (as some yogis advise) or just hanging freely etc. I can release tension from all around my body when I do body scans, but it's much harder around my cheeks and mouth and can't figure out a comfortable position.

How do you do it? Does anybody know some guidelines or can direct me to a useful resource?

Thanks!

[Arman]

One method to relax the body and muscles before meditation is to contract them as tight as you can for a few seconds, then release upon the exhale. You can do this with the muscles in your face; contracting and tightening your face muscles as much as you can for a few seconds, then releasing, and repeat this a few times. Tighten, relax, tighten, relax