Stressed? The Newest Self Care Tool–Yawning!

New research in neuroscience has shown yawning to:

1. Stimulate alertness and concentration
2. Optimize brain activity and metabolism
3. Improve intellectual function
4. Enhance memory–recall
5. Improve consciousness and introspection
6. Decrease stress
7. Relax entire body
8. Enhance muscle control
9. Improve athletic performance
10. Helps with sense of time
11. Increases empathy
12. Enhances pleasure and sensuality

Who knew!? Take a yawn break…try it before public speaking, when you have a challenge to rise to, when you are angry, before a test, as you prepare for sleep….trigger real yawns by taking 6-7 purposeful yawns. Of course you will have to dismantle all your social inhibitions, conditioning and beliefs but the positive effect will be worth it! Would love to hear how it works out for you after you give it a fair trial!

For studies related to yawning go to: www.pubmed.gov