Glossary

Emotions and facial tension

The relationship between emotions and the way we feel and hold the face.

The face takes part in emotional expression

Facial muscles respond to concentration, surprise, anger and many other states.

Prolonged stress may accompany more frequent jaw clenching or raised eyebrows.

This is not a simple diagnosis

A face cannot reveal a person’s entire emotional story.

During treatment we ask about sensations rather than assigning a ready meaning to them.

Conversation does not require private details

You may simply say that the day is difficult or that you need quiet without explaining why.

The practitioner should use this information to support comfort, not interpret your personal story.