Daily · Sep 24, 2026 · Body cue

What to do during a panic attack: soften your jaw

By Vernon B · Reviewed and edited by Vernon B · Updated Oct 19, 2026

When panic hits, the body often braces without asking you. Teeth press. Fists curl. Shoulders climb. That holding pattern keeps the alarm system humming even when nothing dangerous is happening.

Softening the jaw and opening the hands is a small cue that you are not fighting a tiger. You can stand down a little — even if your heart is still loud.

Try soften your jaw

• Notice your teeth. Are they pressed together?
• Let your jaw hang slightly. Let the tongue rest easy.
• Open your hands. Uncurl the fingers.
• Drop your shoulders half an inch if you can.

You do not have to feel calm yet. One soft jaw is enough of a start. This peak can pass.

For more free tools, keep our coping tools nearby.

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