How to Stop a Yawn from Forming

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Kick this pesky reflex to the curb with our simple tricks
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Yawns are perpetually uninvited guests, sneaking into our meetings, classes, and basic conversations when we least expect it. Not to worry! While you can’t always predict when a yawn is coming on, there are a few easy tricks, hacks, and lifestyle tips that might keep this pesky reflex at bay.

Things You Should Know

  • To prevent yawns, close your mouth and breathe through your nose to cool down your brain.
  • Or, munch on chilled snacks, like fruits and veggies, to prevent yawns. Drinking cool water can also keep yawns at bay.
  • Press a cold compress on your head for 1-2 minutes whenever you feel a yawn coming on.
1

Inhale through your nose.

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    Studies show that yawning helps cool down your brain, and prevent overheating. If you feel a yawn coming on, close your mouth and breathe through your nose instead—that may do the trick! [1]
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2

Apply a cool compress to your head.

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    Whenever you feel a yawn coming on, press the compress on your head for 1-2 minutes. This will help cool your head down, and may stop your yawns in their tracks. [2]
    • When your brain is overheated, you’re more likely to yawn. [3]
3

Eat cold snacks.

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    As you feel a yawn coming on, munch on a chilled snack—this might stave off the reflex for the time being. [4]
    • Chilled grapes, berries, or any other refrigerated snack would work well.
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4

Take a deep breath.

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    Unfortunately, experts haven’t found a lot of evidence that yawns are linked to low oxygen levels. Still, deep breathing could be worth a try! If you feel a yawn coming on, inhale deeply and see if it helps stop the yawn. [5]
5

Turn down the temperature.

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    Studies show that yawns actually lower your brain’s temperature; so, if you’re in a warm area, you’re more likely to start yarning. [6] If possible, turn down the temperature in your living space or work area—this might stop potential yawns in their tracks. [7]
    • Studies also show that factors such as sex, age, humidity, and amount of sleep don’t have much of an impact your chances of yawning. [8]
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6

Head outside.

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    Staying in 1 place for a long time may lead to fatigue and yawning. Give your mind some stimulation by heading outside and breathing in some fresh, invigorating air. [9]
    • If you stay in 1 area for too much time, you might start to feel tired.
7

Stay hydrated.

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    Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day—rehydrating might help keep the yawns at bay. Women should aim to drink 8 glasses (1.6 L) of fluid each day, while men should aim for 10 glasses (2 L). [10]
    • Water, watermelon, and coconut water all great options to keep you hydrated. [11]
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8

Get more sleep.

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    Create a regular routine for yourself, where you go to bed and wake up at the same time, even during the weekend. If you don’t get a lot of sleep, you might yawn more frequently. [12]
9

Take over-the-counter medication.

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    Although these remedies are not endorsed by medical experts, some found that decongestant tablets and antacids helped. [13]
    • These remedies are situational and may not work for everyone.
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10

Visit a doctor.

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    Excessive yawning could be a sign of sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, or something else. Describe your symptoms to a doctor, and see if they can help pinpoint the root of the issue. [14]

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  • Question
    What should I do to prevent yawning in class?
    Community Answer
    Drink water and take deep breaths in and out (many people's yawns come from lack of oxygen).
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    Not Helpful 23 Helpful 72
  • Question
    I exercise, I'm physically fit, and I sleep seven hours a night, but I'm still sleepy all the time. How can I avoid this?
    Community Answer
    Often times we underestimate the amount of sleep we need. 7 hours, although recommended by the mainstream, is not always enough. I recommend 9 hours at least. Stress and boredom also can make you sleepy. Try incorporating some yoga and/or meditation into your routine in addition to increasing your sleep time if you can. If all else fails, get checked for narcolepsy.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    How can I prevent yawning in class if I'm not allowed to drink in class?
    Community Answer
    Make the yawn come out as if you're breathing. Take a deep breath, and only open your mouth a little.
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      • Try to stick your tongue on the roof of your mouth and keep your lips closed.
      • Try swallowing hard right before you yawn.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20140811-warning-this-may-make-you-yawn
      2. ↑ https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20140811-warning-this-may-make-you-yawn
      3. ↑ https://time.com/90742/yawning-study-brain-hot/
      4. ↑ https://www.livescience.com/36110-yawn-contagious.html
      5. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucelee/2017/09/01/yawning-is-contagious-but-can-you-prevent-it/?sh=497b94c057a6
      6. ↑ https://time.com/90742/yawning-study-brain-hot/
      7. ↑ https://www.livescience.com/36110-yawn-contagious.html
      8. ↑ https://time.com/90742/yawning-study-brain-hot/
      9. ↑ https://www.sleepadvisor.org/why-do-we-yawn/
      1. ↑ https://metro.co.uk/2015/05/26/how-to-stop-yawning-all-damn-day-5215808/
      2. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/the-7-best-drinks-for-dehydration-article
      3. ↑ https://www.heart.org/en/news/2020/06/05/the-dangers-of-sleep-deprivation
      4. ↑ https://patient.info/news-and-features/what-your-constant-yawning-could-mean
      5. ↑ https://muschealth.org/medical-services/geriatrics-and-aging/healthy-aging/yawning

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To quickly stop a yawn as it's happening, breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth a few times to help increase your oxygen levels. If you have a food or drinks near you, take a drink of a cool beverage or eat a chilled piece of fruit to help wake you up and stop the yawn. If you're still feeling tired, place a cold compress on your forehead to suppress yawns and wake yourself up. For advice on changing your habits to make yourself yawn less, read on!

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