01/03/2026
This small area at the base of the skull holds more than most people realise….
Beneath my fingers are the suboccipital muscles — tiny muscles that work constantly to stabilise your head and respond to stress.
When we’re overwhelmed, concentrating, emotionally carrying a lot, or living in “go mode,” this area can tighten.
In this stress state
The head subtly shifts forward.
The jaw clenches.
The nervous system stays alert.
Over time, this can contribute to:
• Tension headaches
• Neck stiffness
• Eye strain
• A feeling of being constantly “on”
Gentle, deep sustained work through the occipital area can help:
✨ Encourage parasympathetic (rest & digest) activation
✨ Support nervous system regulation
✨ Ease tension headaches
✨ Invite the body out of hypervigilance
This is often where I see the first signs of softening —
a big sigh, a deep exhale, the stomach gurgle, the whole body melting into the table 🥰
We’re not just releasing muscles here.
We’re signalling safety.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what your nervous system has been waiting for.
To feel safe.
That’s the beginning of healing, and that’s what I’m here to assist you in.
✨