Tue Dec 23 09:37:43 UTC 2025: Summary:
A news article from The Hindu e-Paper on December 23, 2025, explains why our eyes water when we yawn. It describes the physiological process involving the lacrimal glands, facial muscles, and tear ducts. The article clarifies that yawning isn’t just a sign of boredom or tiredness but also serves important functions like cooling the brain and relieving ear discomfort during altitude changes.
News Article:
The Hindu e-Paper – December 23, 2025
Why Do We Cry When We Yawn? Science Explains the Soothing Mechanism
NEW DELHI – Ever wonder why your eyes water when you let out a big yawn? A new article published in The Hindu’s e-Paper today sheds light on the fascinating science behind this common bodily function.
According to the report, yawning triggers a chain reaction involving the lacrimal glands (located above the eyes), facial muscles, and tear ducts. As you yawn, your facial muscles compress the lacrimal glands, causing them to release excess tears (the aqueous layer). Simultaneously, the muscle movement temporarily blocks the tear duct, the channel which usually drains away tears, at the inner corner of the eye. This leads to the buildup of tears on the eye’s surface, which ultimately spill out when you open your eyes.
“It’s a complex interplay of muscles and glands,” explains the article.
Beyond just making you look tired or bored, yawning is also vital for the body. Scientists believe yawning plays a role in cooling the brain, particularly when its temperature rises. Additionally, yawning helps equalize pressure in the ears during rapid altitude changes experienced in airplanes and elevators, preventing discomfort by opening the ear canals.
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