Strengthening facial muscles with African storytelling expressions
What's the story
Facial exercises offer a natural method to preserve or improve the youthful vitality of your facial appearance. You can transform these exercises into a fun and culturally enriching experience by integrating expressions derived from African storytelling. Discover five impactful exercises inspired by the vibrant tradition of storytelling across Africa. These exercises focus on strengthening muscles and improving facial tone.
Enthusiasm
Emulate the griot's enthusiasm
Griots, traditional African storytellers, are famous for their animated faces and infectious energy as they weave tales. Imitating a griot's enthusiasm is a great workout. Wider smiles, raising your eyebrows, and looking surprised will exercise different muscles in your face. These movements boost blood flow to your face, and over time, you may notice improved muscle tone.
Roar
The lion's roar mimicry
Lions represent power and bravery in numerous African cultures. To imitate a lion's roar, you have to open your mouth wide and extend your facial muscles as if you were actually roaring. This exercise strengthens your jawline, and neck muscles, and eliminates double chin by toning the lower region of your face.
Gaze
The wise owl gaze
The owl is a common character in African folklore, representing wisdom. To mimic the owl's wide-eyed stare, you have to open your eyes as wide as you can without raising your eyebrows or wrinkling your forehead. This exercise tones the muscles around your eyes and forehead, helping to minimize fine lines and enhance eye health.
Smile
Zebra smile stretch
Zebras hold a special place in African folklore for their sociability and unique stripes. Imitating a zebra's smile by pulling the corners of your mouth towards your ears with your lips closed tightens cheek muscles and improves smile lines. It also helps maintain a youthful appearance by lifting drooping skin through muscle toning.
Trunk
Elephant trunk movements
Elephants are considered sacred in many African cultures, as they are associated with memory and intelligence. Mimicking an elephant's trunk by pursing your lips and moving them side to side, helps to tone the muscles around your lips, increases blood circulation around the mouth, which can help keep your lips looking healthy.