Mewing is a technique involving specific tongue posture that promises to enhance facial appearance, notably by defining the jawline. However, despite its potential benefits, many are unaware of what mewing is. To make the connection, advocates and individuals who have experienced its benefits firsthand turn to social media to disseminate information. 

For example, mewing memes go viral on TikTok, with users often demonstrating the technique or showcasing before-and-after comparisons cleverly or creatively. These memes have helped spread the awareness of posture, especially as it remains a topic of skepticism among professionals and a new idea for many individuals.

Mewing in a Nutshell

Mewing is a technique that involves positioning the tongue against the roof of the mouth to influence the facial structure and potentially improve dental alignment. Popularized by British orthodontists Dr. John Mew and his son Dr. Mike Mew, the practice emphasizes the entire tongue pressed firmly against the palate with the tip just behind the upper front teeth. It also includes keeping the mouth closed, breathing through the nose, and doing a proper swallowing technique that involves the tongue pressing up against the roof of the mouth rather than relying on throat muscles.

Mewing advocates like entrepreneur and face yoga expert Koko Hayashi explain how consistent practice can lead to improved facial aesthetics, such as a more defined jawline and enhanced facial symmetry, as well as orthodontic benefits like better dental alignment and reduced teeth crowding. The posture also encourages nasal breathing, which is beneficial for overall health and promotes better posture and alignment of the head and neck. 

The Mewing Challenge

Social media has popularized mewing and given it traction. One prime example of social media making it a trend is the “Bye Bye Mewing Shh” meme on TikTok, which earned over 10 to 30 million views. The trend typically features users making a “shh” gesture by placing a finger to their lips and then pointing to their jawline. The meme often incorporates emojis to visually represent the concept of mewing and its purported benefits.

While these playful trends have certainly contributed to mewing’s visibility, social media platforms also host more educational content. Medical and beauty experts demonstrate proper mewing techniques step-by-step and share before-and-after comparisons. This guidance proves particularly helpful for those new to the practice, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the posture and its implementation.

Mewing at the Spotlight

Despite the growing popularity of mewing, its scientific validity remains a topic of debate, leading many to question its efficacy. To address these concerns and further promote its benefits, Hayashi announces the upcoming MewCon 2024.

This gathering, to be held on August 17th in Manhattan, New York, will feature live presentations and Q&A sessions with leading experts in mewing and facial growth, including Hayashi and Dr. Mike Mew. The event aims to provide a platform to discuss the principles of mewing in a patient-centric methodology, share successes, and dive deep into its benefits and risks.

Hayashi explains that through MewCon 2024, they, as mewing advocates, seek to explain in detail what mewing is and, from there, inspire many individuals to integrate it into daily routines or ongoing self-improvement practices. The event is designed to answer concerns, offer attendees the opportunity to learn directly from top experts, and build a strong community that believes in the potential of mewing. 

Beauty and the Internet

Social media has changed how information is disseminated, extending its influence beyond current news to topics like beauty enhancement. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have become powerful tools for spreading awareness about natural beauty solutions, such as mewing. 

These platforms allow users to share their experiences, demonstrate techniques, and showcase before-and-after transformations, making it easier for individuals seeking natural enhancements to explore the benefits. For Hayashi and other mewing experts, this approach, with other initiatives like the MewCon2024, builds a community where people can learn, experiment, and experience the practice’s advantages themselves.