Cures for Yawning

There is no true cure for yawning, as yawning is not brought about by any disease or ailment. The occasional need to yawn is a perfectly normal function for humans and animals alike, and as such there's no way to do away with it entirely. However, if you feel you are yawning excessively, there are various methods you can try to reduce the amount you yawn.

Causes

• Scientists haven't pinpointed any single, direct cause for yawning. Yawning generally occurs when you're tired or low on energy. When you yawn, your lungs as well as your abdominal muscles briefly stretch and relax. Because of this, the most commonly-thought cause for yawning is that it allows the lungs and muscles to work themselves out of atrophy. This is the same reason that it feels good to stretch your back and other muscles after sitting in place for a while. Yawning also allows the lungs to take in a bit of extra air, which helps awaken your other muscles through circulation.

Sleep

• Not getting an adequate amount of sleep is the most common reason for feeling tired throughout the day, which will increase the amount you yawn. Try allotting some extra time for sleep at night so that you will be less tired during the day. Also, avoid habitual daytime naps, as these will train your body and mind to expect sleep around the time of your usual nap, which will likely inspire bouts of yawning.

Diet

• Just as important as sleep in maintaining your energy is a balanced diet. Avoid consuming excessive caffeine and sugar, as these substances are likely to make your body "crash" once digested and worked out of the bloodstream. Try to incorporate more fruits and vegetables in your diet for longer-lasting, more consistent energy. This will help your body avoid sudden bouts of tiredness, which bring about yawning.

Exercise

• Exercising is a great way to perk yourself up during the day if you find yourself tired and yawning. Exercise increases your heart rate and releases bodily chemicals that help awaken you, such as adrenaline. Exercise will often snap your mind out of a fatigued state, thus your need to yawn will be reduced.