We all yawn regularly, without giving it much thought most of the time. Harvard Health Publishing says that people yawn between 5 and 20 times per day on average. Indeed, it’s a completely involuntary reflex which sets in very early on in our existence, as fetuses in our mother’s womb.

Yawning mobilizes the respiratory, face and neck muscles, and is often associated with a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Nevertheless, it’s often perceived as something we do when we’re bored or tired. As a result, it can be considered impolite to yawn when someone else is talking or without placing your hand over your mouth.

Does yawning serve a purpose? So why do I yawn when my partner does, even if I’m not tired? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !

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A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.

First Broadcast: 29/8/2022

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Why is yawning contagious?

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