Face Yoga fundamentals
Original Body Care resourceWritten and reviewed by Mallika Some, instructor at Body Care by Mallika. Open her profile.Face Yoga vs facial massage
Face Yoga is muscle work — contracting, lifting and then releasing the muscles of the face and neck. Facial massage is mostly hands-on: it can move lymphatic fluid, soften a clenched jaw and bring circulation to the skin. Body Care uses both in the same 15–20 minute block because puffiness and slack muscle are different problems. Massage is not a full substitute for exercise, and exercise will not drain a very puffy face on its own.
Written and reviewed by Mallika Some. Last reviewed 2026-09-08. All FAQs.
Two tools, one face
Mallika often sees lymphatic fluid sitting in the cheeks and under the eyes in women who never move the face. Massage and drainage address that. Muscle toning addresses a different complaint: cheeks and lip corners that have gone slack. Teaching only one of those is why a lot of internet routines disappoint.
Questions students actually ask
Which should I start with?
If you wake puffy, start with gentle drainage and neck work. If the issue is sagging or a tired look after weight loss, you need muscle work as well. A live class sequences both.
Related Body Care resources
- What helps facial puffiness?
Facial puffiness is often fluid, not fat. Mallika Some explains how Face Yoga and lymphatic massage are taught at Body Care, and when to see a doctor.
- What is Face Yoga?
Face Yoga is a short, guided practice of facial exercises, relaxation and massage. Mallika Some explains how Body Care teaches it in live classes.
- Common Face Yoga mistakes
The mistakes Mallika Some sees in first-time Face Yoga students — from rushing, to over-clenching, to skipping the practice entirely.
Want this checked live?
If you want Mallika to check your technique live, sit in on a demo class. It is the same teaching, without a commitment.