Tight Jaw? Yoga That Helps + New Prenatal Class in SF


Hi Reader,

Whether you’re new here or we’ve been connected for a while—welcome.
I’m Marisa, an Ayurvedic practitioner and longtime yoga teacher, and I share practices, stories, and tools that support a more easeful way of living.

It’s been a little while since I last sent a note, so I wanted to check in and pass along a few things that might be helpful for you (or someone you care about) right now:

1. TMJ + Jaw Tension: A Personal Story

Not long ago, I had dinner with my nephew, who’s in his late 20s. He casually mentioned he’d just gotten veneers for his upper teeth. When I asked why, he told me he’d been grinding his teeth and clenching his jaw so much that it wore down the enamel.

I was shocked. He’s so young—but I also understood. I had the same issue years ago. My jaw was always tight, and I used to grind my teeth at night without even realizing it.

One thing helped me more than anything else: Shoulderstand

When practiced correctly, shoulderstand has a deeply calming effect on the nervous system, which softens tension around the jaw, throat, and ears. I started doing it regularly more than 25 years ago, and my jaw issues never returned.

If you’re dealing with jaw pain, clenching, or just want to unwind a bit, you can try it at home using a chair or your couch.


🎥 Watch the video here

2. Practice Yoga with Marisa

If you're looking to bring a little more yoga into your daily rhythm, I’ve got a full video library available for you. You can practice with me anytime, anywhere—for a low monthly membership.

Yoga On-Demand:

Move with me anytime. Explore classes for all levels—plus dedicated sessions for fertility, prenatal, and postnatal.

3. New Prenatal Yoga Class – SF

Are you currently pregnant—or know someone in the Bay Area who is?

I’m starting a new Prenatal Yoga class on Monday evenings at 6:00 pm, beginning May 14. We’ll meet at FOLKSF - the NOPA location in San Francisco. All trimesters and experience levels are welcome.

🧘‍♀️ Sign up here

Thanks for being here. It’s a joy to share the practices that have supported me—and I hope they support you too.

Best,

Marisa

P.S. If you're curious about Ayurveda or want more personalized support, I also offer one-on-one consultations. You can learn more or schedule a session here.

Follow me on Instagram.

Hi! I'm Marisa

Check out the resources I offer below and sign up for my newsletter! AYURVEDA for folks who want to get off Western pharmaceuticals and build healthy lifestyle practices using diet, herbs, oils, meditation, yoga, mantra, and more. Online Consultations and Membership.

Read more from Hi! I'm Marisa

Hi Reader, With Mother’s Day approaching, I’ve been thinking about all the ways we give care to others, and hopefully, to ourselves. Whether you’re a mother, have one, or are someone who nurtures others (or yourself), I want to invite you to a special afternoon of connection, rest, and replenishment. 🌸Nourish: A Mother’s Day Partner Yoga + Self-Care Workshop May 10th, 4-5:30 pm, 6th Avenue, San Francisco **Everyone Welcome** This gentle and heart-centered workshop is designed to honor the...

Hi Reader, It was such a joy to meet you all at your FolkSF teacher training last Saturday! I hope you walked away with some fresh insights on Ayurveda—both for yourself and your students. And a big thank you for embracing the Kitcheree! I’ve dropped the recipe in the P.S. below so you can try it at home. Feel free to tweak the spices and veggies to your liking! Cooking this once a month is a simple way to reset your digestion. Let me know how it goes—I’d love to hear about your kitchen...

Hi Reader, I’m thrilled to invite you to an upcoming panel discussion, "Growing Together: Family-Centered Wellness Practices," on Thursday, January 30th. I’ll be sharing how Ayurveda can support you, your family, and your daily life. Whether you’re exploring wellness for the first time or deepening an existing practice, this is a perfect opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired. ✨ Plus: I’m bringing a fresh pot of Kitcheree for everyone to enjoy—a comforting Ayurvedic dish that...