I find myself lightly gripping at my neck often. why is that?

Muscular neck pain: Self acupressure of the neck is often a sign of muscle pain/strain, likely from overuse or neck injury. Initial self-guided care includes cervical extension (backwards) isometric strengthening exercises, and stretching (such as yin yoga). There are several good youtube videos on this. Use of anti-inflammatories (unless not tolerated) are also useful, as are topical ointments.