why do we yawn?
Explain it like I'm 16
We yawn because it helps the brain and body shift between states, such as waking up, getting sleepy, or becoming more alert. Yawning may also help cool the brain slightly and stretch muscles around the face and jaw. Scientists are still not completely sure why it happens.
A real-world example
You might yawn when you are tired because your brain is moving towards sleep. You may also yawn after sitting still for a long time, as your body prepares to become more alert.
Example 1 of 3
Why this matters
Yawning is usually normal and harmless, but unusually frequent yawning with symptoms such as faintness or breathing trouble should be checked by a doctor.
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