What To Do When You Jawn While Meditating?

Navigating Yawns During Meditation: Tips and Tricks

Ah, the humble yawn. It’s about as natural as breathing but, let’s face it, about as welcome during meditation as a phone call in the middle of a deep sleep. You’re aiming for zen, channeling your inner peace, and suddenly, your body hits you with a yawn. So, what’s the deal? Is your body rebelling, or is it merely signaling something? And more importantly, how do you deal with it without breaking your meditative stride? Let’s delve into the art of handling yawns during meditation, making sure they don’t derail your journey to tranquility.

Understanding the Yawn: More Than Just Boredom or Tiredness

First things first, let’s toss out the old notion that yawning is only a sign of boredom or exhaustion. In the realm of meditation, a yawn can be an indicator of your body transitioning into a more relaxed state. It’s your physiological systems doing a bit of a reset – increasing oxygen intake, regulating brain temperature, and, frankly, getting you more comfy for the dive into deep meditation.

Tips to Embrace and Overcome Yawning

Here are some practical steps to take if you find yourself yawning midway through your om-chanting session:

1. Acknowledge and Accept: Like a surprise guest, acknowledge the yawn. Don’t try to stifle it or feel frustrated. Mindfulness is about observing without judgment. Recognize the yawn for what it is – a natural bodily response.

2. Breathe Deeper: Sometimes, a yawn is just your body asking for a little more air. Engage in deeper, more deliberate breaths. Focus on your diaphragm and fill your lungs to their capacity, then release slowly. This might just nip those yawns in the bud.

3. Change Your Posture: If you’re sitting and start yawning, stand up or stretch a bit. Conversely, if you’ve been standing or walking, take a seat. A slight change in posture can refresh your senses and reduce the frequency of yawns.

4. Cool Down: Overheating can trigger yawns, so if you’re meditating in a warm room, try cooling it down a notch. A cooler environment might help keep those yawns at bay.

5. Hydrate and Nourish: Never underestimate the power of a well-hydrated and nourished body. Make sure you’re not thirsty or hungry before you begin. Sometimes, a glass of water is all it takes to smoothen your meditation experience.

Embracing the Yawn: A Sign of Deepening Relaxation

Ironically, the very act of yawning during meditation might be a sign that you’re doing something right. It indicates your mind and body sinking into a deeper state of relaxation and receptivity. So, next time the yawns sneak up on you, don’t get tangled in frustration. Instead, see them as milestones, signaling your progression into deeper meditation realms.

Remember, the path to meditation mastery is peppered with unexpected guests – from wandering thoughts to surprising yawns. Welcoming these with open arms and a knowing smile is part of the journey. By following the tactics above, not only will you keep your meditation ship sailing smoothly, but you might also gain deeper insights into the intricate dance between your body and mind. So, take those yawns in stride, and who knows? They might just lead you to the tranquil shores you’ve been aiming for.