The process of swallowing a sword involves more than just lining everything up and letting gravity do its thing.
In order to successfully swallow a sword, a performer must learn to relax muscles that are typically not under voluntary control, such as the upper and lower esophageal sphincters and the muscles of the esophagus. All while making it look easy, and not hurting themselves.
Basically a sword swallower needs to deactivate the gag reflex.
When you accidentally touch the back of your throat with your toothbrush and involuntarily gag, you’ve activated this reflex. In some people, the gag reflex is quite sensitive and can be activated by touching the back of the mouth. In others, the gag reflex is minimal. Gag reflexes for the most part are involuntary reactions, so to truly control it takes a lot of work.
Some ways to work on lessening or getting rid of your gag reflex:
Find out where your gag reflex starts. The easiest way to do this is by using your toothbrush to brush your tongue. The point nearest to the front of your tongue that makes you gag is where you should concentrate. You might be more likely to gag earlier in the day. Try to schedule the gag-inducing activity for the late afternoon or evening instead.
You can also use your toothbrush to slowly deactivate your gag reflex, brush further back everyday until you don’t gag anymore, especially in the mornings when your gag reflex is most sensitive. You’ll only want to move about ¼ to ½ inch (6mm–12mm) back each time to not go too far too fast.
Squeeze your thumb. Close your left thumb in your left hand and make a fist. Position your thumb under your fingers. Squeeze tightly without causing yourself too much pain. This trick puts pressure on a point in your palm that controls the gag reflex
Redirect your focus. Listen to music, mediate, whatever you can do to take your mind off of gagging. Even raising one leg slightly will do the trick. When you concentrate on keeping your leg raised it will distract you from the work going on in your mouth and near your soft palate.
Hum. Humming keeps you breathing, which is essential for relaxation. It’s also difficult to gag and hum at the same time.
Breathe through your nose. This will help prevent gag reflex. If you’re congested consider using a nasal decongestant before. This will clear your nasal passageways and make it easier for you to breathe. Breathing through your nose will also help calm your anxiety if you have any around your gag reflex.
Engage your core. Tighten your ab muscles if you feel yourself starting to gag.
Some other posts by other bloggers to check out
