Understanding the Quirky Human Trick Called ‘Gleeking’

Gleeking is one of those odd little tricks our bodies can do, and surprisingly, many folks don’t even realize they can pull it off. While it might sound a bit yucky to some, it’s a neat phenomenon that some people have accidentally stumbled upon over the years.

It’s particularly interesting that, despite being perfectly normal, gleeking can often prompt feelings of embarrassment or discomfort when discovered.

People often react strongly to learning about gleeking. Here’s what some have said: “Y’all, have you ever heard of gleeking? I am traumatized,” shared one individual after their discovery.

Another person humorously mentioned, “It might be the worst thing I’ve ever witnessed.” Clearly, responses vary widely!

And yet another person chimed in: “I just found out what gleeking is on TikTok and wow, keep that to yourself; I don’t wanna see that!”

The TikTok Trend

Recently, gleeking has gained attention on TikTok, following a video from a doctor who insists that gleeking is a skill you can actually master with some practice. While initially only a fraction of people might naturally do it, it’s believed that you can learn how to do it whenever you want.

In a viral video, a well-known TikTok doctor claims, “35 percent of the population can do it, but only one percent can do it on command.”

What Exactly is Gleeking?

Gleeking is essentially the result of your tongue applying just the right pressure to the salivary glands located under it. These glands include the parotid glands near your ears, the sublingual glands under your tongue, and the submandibular glands below your jaw.

As explained by healthcare professionals, saliva plays a crucial role in kickstarting digestion, aiding in chewing and swallowing, and even defending your teeth against decay.

What Causes Gleeking?

The act of gleeking usually happens when you least expect it – such as when you’re eating, talking, or yawning. Although amusing, it is practically useless and doesn’t serve any real purpose.

While not medically recognized, gleeking often makes an appearance in playful settings where friends are trying to outdo each other or simply having a bit of fun.

Curious to Try?

If you’re one of those people who smiles at challenges and new tricks, you might be wondering how you can start gleeking on command. Well, some experts have shared simple steps to help you out!

Dr. Mark S. Wolff, a dental scholar, suggests beginning with something sour to munch on, like tart cherries or kimchi, to really get those glands working. A sip of water beforehand can also prepare your mouth for the activity ahead.

Then, you’ll need to stick out your tongue, lift it slightly, and curl its tip just behind your upper front teeth. With a gentle tensing of the tongue muscles, you might just succeed in activating your inner gleek.

A Surprising Skill

Dr. Wolff encourages everyone to give it a shot, insisting that gleeking is something everyone’s capable of — with enough patience and practice, of course!

Have you ever managed to gleek? Perhaps you’ve got stories or tips to share. Don’t hesitate to express your experiences!