What is reason of yawning?
Yawning is a widespread physiological behavior seen across animals, including humans. While its exact mechanism and reason are not fully understood, several theories have been proposed to explain the occurrence of yawning. Here are some possible reasons for yawning:
1. Increased Oxygen Intake: Yawning involves a deep inhalation of air, suggesting it might serve to increase oxygen intake. When we yawn, our diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract, drawing in a larger volume of air into the lungs. This can lead to increased oxygen levels in the bloodstream and improved oxygen supply to the brain and other organs.
2. Cooling the Brain: Yawning has been linked to thermoregulation in the brain. When the brain temperature rises, yawning may be a mechanism to induce airflow that cools the brain and helps maintain optimal brain function. The deep inspiration associated with yawning draws in cooler air, which may assist in reducing brain temperature.
3. Arousing Response: Yawning can be triggered by feelings of tiredness, boredom, or lack of focus. It's believed that yawning might act as an alerting or arousal mechanism to combat drowsiness or maintain alertness during such situations. By increasing oxygen flow and stretching muscles, yawning may enhance alertness and help re-energize the body.
4. Social Contagion and Empathy: Yawning is known to be highly contagious, meaning that seeing someone else yawn can trigger the urge to yawn in others. This is particularly evident among individuals with close relationships or emotional bonds, suggesting that yawning could have a social or empathic component.
5. Resetting Airway Resistance: Another theory proposes that yawning may serve to reset the resistance of the airway. During prolonged inactivity, the airway can become narrower due to muscle relaxation, leading to increased resistance to airflow. Yawning involves a wide opening of the mouth, which might help normalize airway resistance and improve breathing.
6. Muscle Stretching and Joint Lubrication: Yawning entails stretching the muscles of the jaw, face, neck, and sometimes even the limbs. This stretching may provide relief from prolonged static postures or inactivity and could also aid in lubricating joints.
It's worth noting that yawning can also be a symptom of underlying medical conditions, such as sleep disorders, neurological issues, or side effects of certain medications. If yawning occurs excessively or disrupts daily life, it's essential to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and management.