Autonomic Toning Through Pandiculation

by Kayle Sandberg-Lewis

frequent pandiculator

All vertebrates pandiculate, some more than others. Most adult humans may do it only once or twice a day while cats do it 30 - 40 times. Pandiculation is a contraction/expansion of the myofascial network.

Yawning is pandiculation specific to the face, throat, and upper chest. Through the interconnected myofascial system of the body, the effects of yawning reach well beyond the face. Yawning is often combined with contraction of the muscles of the chest, arms, and back, followed by a release. We often do this when we first wake or have sat still for an extended period.

So pandiculation is universal but why?

Research suggests we’re resetting the structural and functional equilibrium of the myofascial system, preparing ourselves for interacting with the outside world. Sort of Nature’s internal reminder, “Hey body parts, we’re in this together.”

While pandiculation is involuntary, it can be learned and inserted into our daily routines. Much as breathing is involuntary but subject to our conscious influence, we can choose to pandiculate and take advantage of our ability to consciously tone our Autonomic Nervous System.

Hive Mind Medicine blog posts are for educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your health care practitioner for personalized guidance.