One way to help release tension in the front of the neck (most people feel this as tightness around the back of the skull at the base) may be to place the tongue at the roof of the mouth behind the front teeth. When I receive neck work, I like to alternate: one session trying the technique, and the next without it, to compare my body’s response to the massage.

Another sensation that may occur is tension along the clavicles. A manual application of my own hands to the muscles attaching just below the collarbone while looking up, chin tilting as well, may assist in reducing this sensation. I use it sitting or standing, and sometimes lying down. It looks like I am praying, one hand on top of the other, my thumbs touching my index fingers, with my elbows dropped in close to my ribs, and gentle pressure applied to my sternum downward toward my feet. I even try to do the tongue placement, described above, and feel the changes under my hand. When this area is really tight, it’s highly noticeable, and as things loosen, it takes more pressure.  To make the stretch noticeable again, or better, I change the tilt of my head, or turn it, to broaden the range of motion.

Both of these techniques are ‘anywhere, anytime’ things to do for self help.