Concept in Definition ABC

A yawn occurs when we open our mouth as a sign of fatigue, when we wake up or when we feel bored by something that does not interest us. On the other hand, yawning is a contagious gesture and when someone does it, it is very likely that a close person will imitate this conduct.

It is not an exclusively human action, since some animal species also have this habit.

Scientists try to explain yawning

Although scientists do not know exactly what are the brain mechanisms associated with the action of yawning, it is clear that this habit is directly related to sleep. There are two preferred moments of the day in which this action is carried out: upon waking up and before going to sleep.

Yawning is thought to be probably associated with the need to ventilate the brain. In this way, when opening the mouth, the air cold in the body and this mechanism helps to increase the oxygen level in the brain. In other words, we yawn so our brains stay alert.

From another point of view, contagious yawning is considered an unconscious mechanism to generate

empathy with the rest. According to other explanations, yawning is nothing more than a reflex action that comes from our stage in the womb (fetuses yawn because this facilitates the breathing).

In some cases, yawning can be a warning sign of a seizure. heart. Likewise, people with epilepsy or multiple sclerosis tend to yawn with some frequency.

A rude gesture

If a person yawns while in his family environment, this behavior does not have a connotation negative. However, at work or in a public event, it is a rude and impolite gesture. Do not forget that this gesture expresses boredom, lack of interest, apathy or fatigue.

Other contagious behaviors and mirror neurons

Yawning is very contagious and when someone does it, it is very likely that another close person will imitate them.

Something similar happens with sadness, laughter or stress. Scientists who study the human brain claim that this imitation mechanism is due to so-called neurons mirror. These neurons are activated in humans and in some animals by observing the behavior of other individuals. Mirror neurons reflect the sensations of others and make us feel their experiences in a similar way.

Photo: Fotolia - Dirima

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