Facial Exercises

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 96, 26 April 1939, Page 14

Facial Exercises

Keeping Muscles Firm

If you can imagine the effect that lack of exercise would have on the body—how firm rounded limbs would soon become soft and flabby—you will readily understand that the facial muscles also need exercise to keep them firm and healthy, saws a Sydney writer. Though patting and moulding are excellent for retaining a healthy condition of the tissue something more is needed in the way of exercise in cases where the muscles have begun to sag. The following exercises have been tested and if faithfully and regularly practised, will give surprising results in a comparatively short time. First of all, let me warn you not to practise in company for your family or friends would be seriously concerned about your mental condition after viewing your grimaces. The first exercise should be done in a reclining position and a good time to try it is on awakening in the morning. Remember to go slowly at first doing the exercises once or twice the first day, but increasing as time goes on. This exercise will firm the neck muscles, improve the facial contours and assist in relaxing the cordlike tendons which contract and show conspicuously at the sides of the neck with advancing years. Commence, after removing pillows by raising the head and shoulders about eight inches from the bed and with head thrown back and jaw tensed. Slowly count 12, relax and rest for a few seconds, then repeat. In the second part of this exercise, the head is raised as in the first part but is turned slowly towards right and then the left shoulder, counting 12 for each movement. Keep the chin well up and make an effort to look over your shoulder. This is bound to make the muscles at the sides of the neck sore, so be careful not to overdo it. As a change between the over-shoulder movements, carry the head forward slowly until the chin is pressing firmly on the chest, then back as far as you can force it. Remember to slowly count 12 in doing each movement. This second exercise is designed to keep wrinkles around the eyes at bay. Place the tips of the first three fingers of each hand on the cheek bones close below the eyes. Close the eyes very tightly, drawing up the cheeks in a grin, while the finger-tips make firm yet gentle resistance. Try this one to fill out sunken cheeks, hold your head up ar%l strenuously blow at an imaginary feather, with the idea of preventing its falling below the level of your eyes. Another excellent exercise is that in which each vowel is stressed. In this all the lower facial and also the neck muscles are exercised. Stand before a mirror and watch the play on the muscles as you sing up the scale—as each vowel is exaggerated there will be a different action on the muscles. Don’t expect results unless you are prepared to practise the exercises daily.