How to Stop a Yawn from Forming

PDF download Download Article
Kick this pesky reflex to the curb with our simple tricks
PDF download Download Article

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.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
    2. Advertisement
2

Apply a cool compress to your head.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-2-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-2-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-2-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-2-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b7\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b7\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.
    2. Advertisement
4

Take a deep breath.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-4-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-4-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-4-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-4-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3b\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-5-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-5-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3b\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-5-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-5-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
    2. Advertisement
6

Head outside.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-6-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-6-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-6-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-6-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/17\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/17\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
    2. Advertisement
8

Get more sleep.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/37\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/37\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/70\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/70\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.
    2. Advertisement
10

Visit a doctor.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Stop-a-Yawn-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Stop-a-Yawn-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • 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).
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 24 Helpful 76
  • 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.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 29 Helpful 45
  • 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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 23 Helpful 39
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Try to stick your tongue on the roof of your mouth and keep your lips closed.
      • Try swallowing hard right before you yawn.
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Make Yourself Yawn
      How to
      Hide an Erection
      How to
      Stop Throwing Up After Drinking Alcohol: Remedies & Prevention Tips
      How to
      Hold in Poop When You Can't Get to a Bathroom
      Discreet and Comfortable Ways to Pee Outside as a Woman
      How to
      Get Rid of Urine Smell
      How to
      Hide That You Peed Your Pants
      How to
      Burp as Loud (or Quietly) as Possible
      How to
      Urinate in the Ocean Discreetly
      How to
      Discreetly Pee Outside in Public
      How to
      Avoid Urinal Splashback
      How to
      Fart Quietly
      How to
      Stop Your Stomach from Making Noises
      How to
      Cope if You Wet Yourself in Public
      Advertisement

      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!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 326,292 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement