Yawning: Its Cause and Its Spreadability
Yawning: An Involuntary Response to Tiredness and Brain Cooling
Yawning, the wide opening of the mouth and a deep breath in and out, is a common and frequently experienced behavior. But what triggers this action, and is it truly contagious?
Understanding Yawning
Yawning can be prompted by sleepiness, but it may also be linked to changes in brain temperature [1]. Each yawn typically lasts about five seconds, with the average person yawning approximately 5 to 20 times a day.
While the exact purpose of yawning remains unclear, there are several theories. Some studies have indicated that yawning may be a response to observing, hearing, or even thinking about someone else yawning [3].
Brain Cooling Theory
One theory suggests that yawning helps cool down the brain when internal body temperature rises. Evidence supporting this theory comes from studies investigating various animal and human models [4][5]. For instance, instances of yawning in birds have been found to be more frequent at higher ambient temperatures.
Apart from temperature regulation, research suggests that yawning could also serve as a way for the body to stretch muscles and joints, increase heart rate, and boost alertness and focus [2]. Furthermore, yawning might enhance blood flow to the brain.
Common Causes of Yawning
Several situations can cause or trigger yawning, including tiredness or sleepiness, boredom, stress, observing another person yawning, changes in elevation or air pressure.
Is Yawning Contagious?
Yes, yawning can be contagious, with a higher chance of occurrence when closely bonded to someone compared to weakly bonded individuals [6].
Excessive Yawning and Possible Underlying Issues
Excessive yawning may signal an underlying problem such as excessive tiredness, sleep disorders, or sleep deprivation [7]. In some cases, excessive yawning could indicate a more serious medical condition such as a heart attack, stroke, or brain tumor. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience excessive yawning accompanied by other symptoms.
Managing Excessive Yawning
Adopting good sleep hygiene and lifestyle choices can help manage excessive yawning. Improve your sleep environment by making it dark, quiet, and cool. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and manage your stress levels by practicing relaxation techniques, doing deep breathing exercises, or regular exercise.
In Conclusion
Though there is no definitive explanation for why we yawn, the most widely accepted theories highlight its role in sleepiness and brain cooling. By adhering to good sleep habits, we can help reduce excessive yawning and promote better sleep quality. For further insights on sleep habits and reduction of excessive yawning, consider trying the ShutEye® app.
[1] Overall explanation: Yawning serves dual physiological roles, combating sleepiness to improve alertness and maintaining optimal brain temperature for cognitive function. Evolutionary function is maintaining brain homeostasis, balancing alertness with temperature regulation.
- Maintaining optimal brain temperature for cognitive function and combating sleepiness to improve alertness, yawning plays a significant role in sleep hygiene as it helps promote better sleep quality.
- Excessive yawning might indicate underlying issues such as insomnia, sleep disorders, or sleep deprivation, which could be signals of potential health-and-wellness concerns or mental-health issues.
- Adopting good sleep hygiene through establishing a consistent sleep schedule, managing stress levels, and improving sleep environment can help manage excessive yawning and address potential underlying issues.
