If you're a music teacher, you already know: the job is more physically demanding than most people realize.
You’re constantly:
- Talking (a lot)
- Demonstrating (over and over again)
- Conducting, singing, cueing, correcting
- Trying to maintain posture, presence, and patience
- …often while clenching your jaw and smiling through the stress
And at the end of the day, when the classroom is finally quiet and your kids are tucked into bed, your jaw hurts.
Maybe your head, too. Or your ears. Or your neck.
Maybe your head, too. Or your ears. Or your neck.
Sound familiar?
You're not imagining it. And you’re definitely not alone.
Why Music Teachers Are Prone to TMJ Dysfunction
Most of us weren’t taught how to take care of our own bodies as musicians, let alone teachers.
We were trained to push through pain. To keep going. To “just rest it” and hope it’ll be better tomorrow.
But TMJ dysfunction doesn’t just go away with rest.
It’s a whole-body issue that shows up in your jaw—but starts deeper.
And when your job literally depends on your ability to speak, sing, and show up physically, ignoring it just isn’t an option.
My Story (In Case We Haven’t Met Yet)
I’m Andrea—a fellow music teacher, mom, and entrepreneur.
And I’ve been exactly where you are.
I used to think my jaw pain was just part of the job.
I tried the night guard. The stretching. The "just relax your face" advice (gee, thanks).
It wasn’t until I dug into the why behind TMJ pain that things started to shift.
I began to understand the connections between posture, muscle imbalances, stress, and breath—and how to create small, manageable routines that actually helped me heal.
What Helped Me (And What I Created to Help You)
That journey led me to create TMJ Strong, a self-paced, practical course designed specifically for busy women like us.
It’s not full of fluff or gimmicks. It’s clear, evidence-based, and easy to integrate into your already full life.
You’ll learn:
- What’s really causing your jaw tension
- Simple changes you can make in just a few minutes a day
- How to break the cycle of pain so you can keep doing what you love
- How to build strength and mobility that lasts (without overwhelm)
If you’ve been quietly dealing with jaw pain, I want you to know:
You don’t have to live with it.
And you definitely don’t have to figure it out alone.
You Deserve to Feel Good—In and Out of the Classroom
You’re pouring into your students every day.
Now it’s time to pour into you.
Now it’s time to pour into you.
If you’re ready to stop the cycle of pain and start feeling strong, capable, and clear—
Check out TMJ Strong.
It might just be the thing your future self will thank you for.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause significant pain and discomfort, affecting your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy daily life. While various treatments exist (check out TMJ Strong for more), nutrition plays a crucial role in managing TMJ symptoms. By incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet (see my handy clean eating foods list here for printing!), you can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorders.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods for TMJ Relief
- Omega-3 Rich Fish: Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Include these fish in your diet at least twice a week.
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and collard greens are packed with antioxidants and nutrients that combat inflammation.
- Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
- Turmeric: This golden spice contains curcumin, a compound known for its potent anti-inflammatory effects. Add turmeric to soups, smoothies, or tea.
- Ginger: Like turmeric, ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporate fresh ginger into your cooking or enjoy it as a tea.
- Whole Grains: Choose whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats, which are rich in fiber and can help reduce inflammation.
- Nuts and Seeds: Walnuts, almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and other anti-inflammatory compounds.
Ningxia Red for TMJ Relief
Ningxia Red, a nutrient-rich wolfberry juice blend, can be a valuable addition to your anti-inflammatory diet for TMJ relief. This superfruit beverage is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to support overall health and well-being. While not specifically studied for TMJ relief, its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorders.Recent research has demonstrated that regular consumption of Ningxia Red can lead to significant improvements in sleep quality, stress reduction, and physical health. In a clinical study, participants who consumed 2 oz of Ningxia Red daily experienced a 34.5% increase in physical energy levels and a 36% reduction in physical limitations. These benefits could potentially translate to reduced TMJ discomfort and improved jaw function.Additionally, Ningxia Red contains a blend of essential oils, including orange and lemon, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects. By incorporating Ningxia Red into your daily routine, you may not only support your overall health but also potentially alleviate some of the symptoms associated with TMJ disorders.
Foods to Avoid
To maximize the benefits of an anti-inflammatory diet, limit or avoid foods that can promote inflammation:
- Processed Foods: These often contain additives and preservatives that can trigger inflammation.
- Sugary Foods and Beverages: Excess sugar consumption can lead to increased inflammation in the body.
- Fried Foods: These are often high in unhealthy fats that can promote inflammation.
- Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase inflammation throughout the body.
Soft Food Options for TMJ Flare-Ups
During periods of acute TMJ pain, choose soft foods that don't require excessive chewing:
- Smoothies: Blend fruits, vegetables, and yogurt for a nutrient-rich, easy-to-consume meal.
- Soups: Opt for pureed soups that are both nourishing and easy on your jaw.
- Mashed Potatoes: A comforting and soft option that can be easily customized with healthy additions like olive oil or Greek yogurt.
- Scrambled Eggs: Rich in protein and easy to eat, scrambled eggs are an excellent choice during TMJ flare-ups.
- Cottage Cheese: This soft, protein-rich food can be paired with fruit for a balanced meal.
By focusing on anti-inflammatory foods, incorporating Ningxia Red, and choosing soft food options during flare-ups, you can effectively manage your TMJ symptoms through nutrition. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on managing your TMJ disorder through diet and lifestyle changes.
Tinnitus, often described as a ringing, buzzing, or whooshing sound in the ears without an external source, is a surprisingly common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, there are many misconceptions about tinnitus that can lead to confusion and frustration for those experiencing it. Let's explore the truth about this complex condition.
Tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease
Contrary to popular belief, tinnitus itself is not a disease but rather a symptom of an underlying condition. It can be caused by various factors, including hearing loss, head and neck injuries, TMJ disorders, traumatic brain injuries, infections, heavy metals, lack of spinal alignment, vestibular disorders like Meniere's disease, and even certain medications. Understanding the root cause is crucial for effective management.
It's more common than you think
Tinnitus affects an estimated 50 million people in the United States alone and over 600 million worldwide. This means that roughly 10-15% of the global population experiences some form of tinnitus, making it a significant health concern that often goes unrecognized.
There's no single cure, but there is hope
While there's currently no universal cure for tinnitus, that doesn't mean those affected are powerless. Many people naturally learn to cope with tinnitus over time, and various treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include:
- Sound therapy
- NUCCA chiropractic care -- I recommend Spine and Body Renewal in Rockford IL if you need one locally.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Occupational Therapy -- I recommend Spine and Body Renewal in Rockford IL if you need one locally.
- Mindfulness-based techniques
- Hearing aids (for those with associated hearing loss)
- Stress reduction techniques
- Lifestyle modifications
The brain plays a crucial role
The perception of tinnitus is closely tied to how our brains process and react to the phantom sound. Our emotional and psychological responses can significantly impact the severity of tinnitus symptoms. By changing our reaction to the sound, we can often reduce its impact on our daily lives.
Hidden hearing loss may be a factor
Recent research suggests that some individuals with tinnitus may have "hidden" hearing loss - damage to the auditory nerve that isn't detected by conventional hearing tests. This discovery is shedding new light on potential causes and treatment approaches for tinnitus.
Management is key
Living successfully with tinnitus often involves a combination of treatments and coping strategies. These may include:
- Using white noise or nature sounds to mask the tinnitus
- Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga
- Maintaining spinal alignment through NUCCA care
- Joining support groups to share experiences and coping strategies
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with good sleep habits and regular exercise
- Learning body mechanics through Occupational Therapy that can help with easing symptoms
- Exploring new technologies like bimodal stimulation devices
The importance of seeking help
If you're experiencing tinnitus, it's crucial to consult with healthcare professionals, including your primary care doctor and an ear, nose, and throat specialist. They can help rule out any underlying medical conditions and guide you towards appropriate management strategies.
Heavy Metals and Tinnitus
Emerging research suggests that heavy metals may play a role in the development of tinnitus. Elevated levels of heavy metals such as manganese, cadmium, chromium, and selenium have been found to potentially contribute to subjective tinnitus. These metals can lead to oxidative damage and decreased antioxidant activity, which may affect auditory function. If heavy metal toxicity is suspected as a contributing factor to tinnitus, a safe detoxification process is essential. I have utilized the 11 Day Jumpstart to help my body naturally detox safely, but here are some steps to consider:
- Consult a Professional: Seek guidance from a healthcare provider before starting any detox regimen. They can perform tests to confirm heavy metal toxicity and recommend appropriate treatments.
- Chelation Therapy: This medical procedure involves the administration of chelating agents that bind to heavy metals, allowing them to be excreted from the body. It should be performed under medical supervision due to potential side effects.
- Dietary Changes: Incorporate foods that support detoxification, such as leafy green vegetables, herbs, spices, and algae. These foods can help break down and eliminate heavy metals from the body.
- Supplements: Certain supplements, such as those containing glutathione, can aid in the detoxification process by promoting the excretion of heavy metals.
- Hydration and Exercise: Staying hydrated and engaging in regular physical activity can support the body's natural detoxification processes.
Living with tinnitus can be challenging, but understanding the truth about this condition is the first step towards effective management. With the right approach and support, many people find ways to reduce the impact of tinnitus on their daily lives and regain a sense of control. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there are resources and treatments available to help you cope with tinnitus.
Dealing with jaw issues can be quite complex. Many people, including specialists, often struggle to pinpoint the exact causes of TMJ disorders (TMJD), and the underlying factors can differ significantly from one individual to another.
I firmly believe in the interconnectedness of the body. We are holistic beings, and it’s essential to nurture our body, mind, spirit, and heart as a unified whole.
Through a process of trial and error, I’ve made several lifestyle changes and embraced natural solutions that have led me to a place of physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual wellness. While there’s always room for growth, I can confidently say I feel better than ever on this journey of wellness.
5 Key Changes That Improved My TMJ Health
- Revamping My Diet
- We eliminated sugar, caffeine, most dairy (especially for my husband, who has IBS), and processed foods from our diet.
- Our meals now focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, with einkorn as our primary grain.
- We also incorporated supplements that promote joint health and overall wellness, which have surprisingly improved the strength and appearance of my hair and nails.
- Chiropractic Support
- Regular visits to a specialized chiropractor have been beneficial, as they help us maintain proper alignment and use tools that help us keep that alignment longer.
- I wear a custom night splint that allows my jaw to slide rather than clench, primarily protecting my teeth rather than fully preventing clenching.
- Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation
- I’ve worked diligently to manage my mindset and emotional responses, as well as to balance my hormones.
- Previously, I was prone to anxiety and often magnified small worries. By focusing on affirmations and embracing positive truths, I’ve made significant strides in my emotional well-being. The Big Think course was key for me in growing my mind to be prepared for new big things!
- Targeted Supplementation
- Addressing deficiencies in the body is vital, particularly concerning joint health, gut function, and detoxification issues like tinnitus.
- In a world where our bodies can sometimes falter, providing high-quality, bioavailable supplements can help us reclaim our health. Remember, healing is a gradual process that requires patience and consistency.
- Prioritizing Sleep
- Quality sleep is foundational to overall health and wellness. Ensuring I get restorative rest has been a game-changer in my journey.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re curious about the specific strategies that have worked for me in these areas, feel free to explore the links above or check out the TMJ Strong course. Health and wellness are not one-size-fits-all, and I’m here to share my experiences and insights. If you’re looking for someone to discuss ideas with or simply need a supportive ear, I’m here for you. I wish I had that kind of support when I first began this journey. I send you my best wishes for wellness, relief, and abundance on your path. Stay blessed!
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be frustrating and painful, affecting your daily life in numerous ways - it was causing daily pain for me for over 5 years! If you've been undergoing treatment for TMJ but aren't seeing the results you hoped for, you might be making some common mistakes. Let's explore why your TMJ treatment may not be working and what you can do to improve your chances of success.
Ignoring the Importance of Lifestyle Changes
Many people underestimate the impact of daily habits on their TMJ health. Simply relying on medication, a splint, or occasional therapy sessions isn't going to be enough.
Key lifestyle factors to address:
- Stress management
- Proper posture & spinal alignment
- Avoiding hard or chewy foods and adding in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant foods (see this food choices guide for more about this)
- Quitting harmful habits like nail-biting or pen-chewing
Make a conscious effort to incorporate these small changes into your daily routine for better treatment outcomes.
The Critical Role of Spinal Alignment in Proper Posture
When addressing posture for TMJ treatment, it's crucial to understand that proper posture starts with spinal alignment. Many people focus solely on sitting or standing straight without realizing that their spine may be misaligned, making it impossible to achieve and maintain proper posture.
Why spinal alignment matters:
- Misalignment can cause compensatory tension in the neck and jaw muscles
- A properly aligned spine provides a stable foundation for the entire body, including the jaw
- Correcting spinal misalignments can alleviate pressure on nerves that may be contributing to TMJ symptoms
To address this:
- Consider consulting a NUCCA chiropractor to assess and correct spinal misalignment
- Incorporate exercises that promote spinal health (I know an occupational therapist that can recommend a customized program! Hint hint, it's my husband ;) )
- Use ergonomic supports that encourage proper spinal positioning throughout the day
Only after addressing spinal alignment can you effectively work on maintaining proper posture to support your TMJ treatment.
Over-reliance on Pain Medication
While pain relief is crucial, solely depending on medication can mask underlying issues without addressing the root cause of your TMJ disorder.
Balanced approach to pain management:
- Use medication as prescribed, but don't rely on it exclusively
- Combine pain relief with other treatment modalities (Check out TMJ Strong for lots and lots of ideas! I addressed my own TMJ issues naturally without prescribed medication.)
- Work with your healthcare provider to gradually reduce medication use as symptoms improve
Neglecting Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy and Exercises
Many patients underestimate the importance of consistent physical or occupational therapy and at-home exercises in managing TMJ disorders.
Benefits of physical therapy/occupational therapy:
- Improves jaw mobility
- Strengthens supporting muscles
- Targeted ergonomic training
- Reduces pain and inflammation
Commit to your prescribed exercise regimen and attend all physical therapy sessions for optimal results.
Overlooking the Mind-Body Connection
TMJ disorders often have a strong psychological component. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate symptoms and hinder treatment progress.
Addressing mental health:
- Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing
- Seek support from mental health professionals if needed
Expecting Instant Results
TMJ treatment often requires patience and persistence, allowing the body time to heal. Expecting immediate relief can lead to disappointment and treatment abandonment.
Realistic expectations:
- Understand that improvement may be gradual and have ups & downs
- Celebrate small victories in your treatment journey
- Stay committed to your treatment plan, even if progress seems slow
Not Seeking a Second Opinion
If your current treatment isn't yielding results, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion from another TMJ specialist.
Benefits of a second opinion:
- Fresh perspective on your condition
- Potential for alternative treatment options
- Confirmation or refinement of your current diagnosis
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly improve the effectiveness of your TMJ treatment. Remember, successful management of TMJ disorders often requires a multifaceted approach and ongoing commitment. Work closely with your healthcare team, stay informed about your condition, and be proactive in your treatment journey for the best possible outcomes.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) is a prevalent yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including many singers and music teachers. While its physical symptoms are well-documented, the emotional toll it has on vocalists remains largely unseen. Let's delve into the hidden struggles faced by singers battling TMJD, shedding light on an often-overlooked aspect of the music industry.
Understanding TMJD:
TMJD is a condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing symptoms such as jaw pain, stiffness, clicking or popping noises, headaches, and difficulty in opening or closing the mouth. For singers, whose livelihoods depend on the flexibility and precision of their vocal instrument, these symptoms can pose significant challenges. It can be a super scary place to be to not really understand what's physically happening!
The Emotional Impact:
Beyond the physical discomfort, TMJD can take a profound emotional toll on singers. The uncertainty of symptom flare-ups, the fear of compromised performances, the unknown of how long it will last, and the frustration of navigating a condition with no easy fix can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. I personally felt so alone in it often. I remember walking home from a choir concert on campus one night by myself because all of my friends went out for dessert afterwards but I was in too much pain to join them. I wrote more about these feelings in my chapter of The Truth About Finding Joy in the Darkness.
Navigating Treatment Options:
While treatment options for TMJD vary, singers often find themselves on a journey of trial and error as they seek relief. From physical therapy and dental appliances to medication and surgery, finding an effective treatment plan can be a daunting task. Dental professionals pawn it off on medical and vice versa. I experienced that over the course of 5 years before finding solutions (on my own) to provide relief.
Finding Support:
In the face of these challenges, many singers find solace in connecting with others who understand their journey. Online support groups, vocal coaches experienced in working with TMJD patients, and sharing experiences with fellow artists can provide much-needed support and encouragement. I'd be happy to be a sounding board or resource for you! I created TMJ Strong for this very reason.
The emotional toll of TMJD on singers may be invisible to the outside world, but its impact is undeniable. By raising awareness of this often-overlooked aspect of the music industry, we can foster greater empathy and understanding for those facing this invisible battle. To all the singers grappling with TMJD, know that you are not alone, and your strength in the face of adversity is commendable.
Do you struggle with TMJ pain? Or do you love someone who does? How does it take a toll on you emotionally?
Do you struggle with TMJ pain? Or do you love someone who does? How does it take a toll on you emotionally?
What IS TMJ anyway?!
Great question! I'm glad you asked. :)
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, aka your jaw.
So why do people say they "have TMJ" then?! Everyone (or almost everyone) has a jaw!
Check out this short video to find out.
So much education and challenges to help you on your journey in my group, Fed-Up & Option-Seeking TMJ Warriors: Abundant Life Community. Check it out!
How can I get rid of anxiety?
This is a question I asked myself a LOT when I was hardcore struggling. I mean, I felt like I was powerless over the thoughts and feelings running through my mind and body, and it was very difficult. For a long time, I couldn't believe I had any control over it -- I thought I was just at the mercy of it.
But I realized later how wrong that was... how it didn't at ALL fit into my beliefs.
I believe personally that God lives within me, that I have His power and strength and love residing in my heart and mind and soul and spirit. If that's true (which if you don't believe that's true, replace it with love or the universe or something else... what fits your framework, just hear what I'm saying).
If God lives within me, I 1000% have His power to take control of thoughts and feelings within me. I'm fallible and will make mistakes being human too, but I CAN reclaim that power of God in me through the strength of the Holy Spirit -- "not a spirit of fear, but of power and love and of a sound mind."
Here's one way you can do that, one antidote for fear, anxiety, and worry. Be filled with courage.
Today I want to talk about something just for those of us with a menstrual cycle. 
In the spirit of being eco-friendly and reducing/reusing/recycling, let's talk about eco-friendly menstrual products.
I personally use cloth pads. (These ones here or some really cute ones you can get on Etsy too! Find what fits for your body and works for you).
I know many people who use a reusable menstrual cup.
Both I think are great! Here's my top 4 reasons for the switch:
1. Eco-friendly: this was a BIG one for me. I'm all about less waste.
2. Less toxin exposure: my period used to be longer and more painful at the beginning than it needed to be because those disposable, one-time use products contain irritants and such that BOTHER our bodies and systems in different ways. Keep in mind that cheaply made cloth ones actually can too. But... Eliminate that? Less bothering the system, and for me resulted in a less painful, more regular cycle with shorter period. Who doesn't want that?! 
3. Comfort: my sensitive body is all about comfort, and once I realized it was actually more comfortable because I invested in quality pads, I felt way more comfortable!
4. Cheaper: no need to go stock up at Target or wherever every month anymore! I've been using the same set for 3 years now and they still look GREAT. I do keep some disposable on hand for random overnight trips if I don't want to think ahead more and plan for cleaning the cloth ones, but that's not often for me.
***Cleaning them is easy-peasy! I just hand-wash with the best ever non-toxic plant-based laundry soap, so they smell good AND stay really nice! Win-win! 
(Let me know if you need care tips, happy to share my how-to!)
(Let me know if you need care tips, happy to share my how-to!)Pro-tip: if you're trying to avoid toxins like I mentioned in #2, you're doing yourself a disservice by washing them in regular laundry detergent. Go look up the ingredients of that stuff... 
No thanks. No matter what you're using, I recommend googling a few (or all!) ingredient names just to see what they are/do. You may be surprised at what you find even if you are using a "natural" laundry soap. Ask me about what I use for the best, most cost effective laundry soap around!
No thanks. No matter what you're using, I recommend googling a few (or all!) ingredient names just to see what they are/do. You may be surprised at what you find even if you are using a "natural" laundry soap. Ask me about what I use for the best, most cost effective laundry soap around!Do you use cloth pads/a menstrual cup? If not, what are your concerns? I guarantee you that I had one of your concerns before I made the switch! Ask away -- no question is too weirdo for me! 
I have GROWN so much in the past year -- physically stronger and truly healthy (nope, I wasn't really that physically healthy before, though to most in our culture I would have looked it), emotionally more stable and empowered, mentally fitter and challenged, relationally in connecting with others, and more grounded in who I am and my God-given purpose.
Much of this growth has been through being challenged by mentors in relationship (a HUGE perk of our wellness team. I would have never met these amazing people who encourage and spur me on were it not for this journey over the past 3 years!), but a lot of my own growth has been having the space in life to READ again. Of course I read and was reading the Bible, but I used to read a ton during high school, both personal development books but also fiction. College left me with only time to read assigned textbooks and such, and after college I found myself super overwhelmed figuring out my career and reading got put on the back burner.
One blessing from the past pandemic season has been getting back to reading! It's been so healthy and transformative for me. So without further ado, my top 5 recommendations for personal development and growth:
1. Switch on Your Brain by Dr. Caroline Leaf -- Mindset and emotions work. SO powerful. She talks about retraining our brains, as our brains are a muscle and SUPER adaptable just like other muscles and parts of our bodies. I gift this book to people who join my Empowering Emotions/Managing Mindset Challenge (contact me for more info!).
2. Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John Maxwell -- I've learned a lot about the skill and art of relating to people recently from this book. It really IS something we can get better at and learn how to do (it's not just something some people are born good at and others aren't). I'm in a Tuesday morning book club right now going through this one and LOVING it!
3. Sensing the Rhythm by Mandy Harvey (70% off on Amazon as I write this!!) -- A memoir type book following Mandy's story of losing her hearing but still going on to be a singer/songwriter, her spiritual and growth-driven perspective isn't just inspiring, but motivating. I see SO much of my own story in hers (my journey through TMJD to the other side and the unexpected blessings from pain).
4. The Superior Ningxia Wolfberry by Hugo Rodier -- I just HAD to learn more about why I am feeling so much better and my body is doing so much better now than I was a couple years ago. This little book was a goldmine. And if you'd like to start this wellness journey with me and join our natural wellness community, I'm happy to give you this one for free. Ask me for more details if you're interested.
5. The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron -- This book started our (my and Gabe's) journey to understanding ourselves better, so much better, in the context of relationships with others and with God. We are SO grateful for reading this book first, but also being able to dive deeper in learning about ourselves through some amazing friends/mentors. If you're interested in learning more about yourself via the Enneagram or coaching opportunities with my friend Kristi, you can check it out here.
There you have it! What are your favorite books that have led to growth and personal development?
Check out my YouTube channel here where I'm going to be doing a video book review soon. Subscribe to stay tuned!
Staying hydrated is VERY important, especially as someone who used to struggle with joint issues AND is a singer for 7+ hours every day. The amount of water each person needs is going to depend on that person and how physically active they are in a given day. I get a few miles of exercise just jumping around my classroom every day! And I also do 2+ miles of walking with the dog daily. Do some experimenting with how much water works best for you. Some people may function better with more water than usual, and it may help reduce issues!, while for others it only causes the inconvenience of more frequent trips to the bathroom.
For me, my voice has to stay hydrated to perform at optimal levels. I already knew that from how much training I had as a singer during college. But did you know that the WHOLE BODY is like that? I kind of did, but not as much as once I started looking up WHY dehydration is such a problem, especially if you're experiencing discomfort.
Your body needs water to function and without sufficient water your body struggles to perform all its necessary tasks, like flushing toxins from the system and lubricating your cells. Believe it or not, there is actually some evidence that supports increasing water decreases some symptoms.
Many health experts have recommended a diet high in antioxidants (remember my red drink? If not, contact me and I'll tell you about my antioxidant hack) as well as drinking fresh water as being great ways to manage inflammation and pain. Water is recommended because it can flush toxins and other irritants out of our systems, decreasing the inflammatory response.
When there is a scarcity of water in the body, cartilage loses its sponginess. Drinking more water may not treat the underlying cause, but it can help keep your joints healthy. Proper hydration can improve the production of synovial fluid, reduce the inflammation, and maintain the shock absorbing properties of cartilage.
Throughout the day, the discs in our backs lose water and need to rehydrate. Drinking water to adequately replenish the discs with the amount water needed to work properly can reduce the likelihood of developing back issues.
It is well documented that water dehydration can lead to the development of headaches. Some observational studies indicate that water dehydration, in addition to impairing concentration and increasing irritability, can serve as a trigger for migraines and other forms of headaches. In those with a water deprivation-induced headache, ingestion of water provided relief from headache in most individuals within 30 minutes to 3 hours.
Our immune system also requires water to work at optimum levels.
As you can see, water is really important! I know some people don't like drinking plain water (which is why they drink other things that contain harmful additives in them). I actually like adding a natural electrolyte squirt (you can find here) to flavor my water and change it up. 
If you do add any GRAS essential oils to your water (which I also recommend!), just make sure you use a glass or metal water bottle. I really like this one personally. And make sure your oils are therapeutic grade and the purest! We definitely would not want to introduce more toxins to your body by using oils that are not pure.
If you do add any GRAS essential oils to your water (which I also recommend!), just make sure you use a glass or metal water bottle. I really like this one personally. And make sure your oils are therapeutic grade and the purest! We definitely would not want to introduce more toxins to your body by using oils that are not pure.____________________________________________________________________________
So now that you know how helpful staying hydrated is, keep at it! If you need encouragement or accountability to stay on track, I have the perfect opportunity for you; reach out to learn more about it!
Struggling with TMJ issues? I did too. (Yes, that is a past tense verb! I've been pain-free for almost 3 years now and grateful every single day for it.) There are so many things that can exacerbate it, but that also means there are so many natural options at your fingertips for addressing those issues and finding relief. One quick example? Hormones can cause issues with joints. I know more than I'd ever care to know now about TMJ and joint issues, and my goal now is just to bless as many people as I can with what I learned. If I can help others experience less pain or less years of pain than I did, this journey will have been WORTH it to me.
The body is super complex, with many different systems working together but also performing separate functions. Your musculoskeletal system, which includes your joints and your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), can be affected by many factors, including gut health, immune system function, mental/emotional health, inflammation in the body, and hormones.
Hormones are constantly at work in your body and can even play a role in certain illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). And, conditions like this can make TMJ issues worse.
The Possible Link Between Hormones and Joint Issues
Although arthritis seems unrelated to hormones, medical research says they may be very related, especially when it comes to RA. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system begins attacking healthy cells instead of foreign invaders. And for women, the experiences of RA are closely correlated with hormonal changes that occur during menstrual cycles, perimenopause, and menopause. Although there is still much more to learn about these things, some studies have found:
The hormones estrogen and progesterone appear to protect against some issues when they are at their highest levels. Women report less discomfort during the latter part of the menstrual cycle, when estrogen and progesterone levels are at their peak. (So if we can support the body in balancing/maintaining levels, this could be a way to support the body in optimal function.)
Hormones are constantly at work in your body and can even play a role in certain illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). And, conditions like this can make TMJ issues worse.
The Possible Link Between Hormones and Joint Issues
Although arthritis seems unrelated to hormones, medical research says they may be very related, especially when it comes to RA. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system begins attacking healthy cells instead of foreign invaders. And for women, the experiences of RA are closely correlated with hormonal changes that occur during menstrual cycles, perimenopause, and menopause. Although there is still much more to learn about these things, some studies have found:
The hormones estrogen and progesterone appear to protect against some issues when they are at their highest levels. Women report less discomfort during the latter part of the menstrual cycle, when estrogen and progesterone levels are at their peak. (So if we can support the body in balancing/maintaining levels, this could be a way to support the body in optimal function.)
Pregnant women are far less likely to develop issues or experience flare-ups. Estrogen and progesterone levels soar during pregnancy.
Onset seems to peak for women between the ages of 45 and 49. This is commonly a period of hormonal decline before menopause begins, known as perimenopause.
Women are two to four times more likely to develop joint issues than men, so it’s possible that the hormone fluctuations trigger the onset of the condition in some people, and the hormonal changes that occur throughout life can either protect against symptoms or make them worse. Other factors, such as genetics, environment, diet, smoking, and alcohol use may also increase a person’s risk of having discomfort, but the hormonal link perhaps may explain why issues appear to come and go at certain times for women.
What This Means for TMJD
Knowing that women’s hormones can affect joints in general, we can assume that for some women, hormones may also affect their temporomandibular joint (TMD). This is because the TMJ is a joint like other joints in the body, so the same things can affect it as well. For women who experience discomfort, it can help them understand why their symptoms may get worse at specific times of the month or certain times in their lives.
If you’re having joint issues, it may be important to see your doctor to get testing, but there are also many things you can do to support your body on your own. I share about my own experience with TMJ issues and addressing them naturally so that people can see that there are options, and naturopaths may be also able to assist in this.
There IS hope for those who struggle with these things -- you CAN feel empowered to support hormones naturally from home; if you'd like support along the way, I am more than happy to walk alongside you and be a cheerleader on your journey. I would have wished that for myself a few years ago, so I'd be honored to be that for you. This does not need to be fearful or lonely. There's community and hope and abundance for you, dear friend.
