Origin of yawning

Yawning is a universal behavior observed in many species, but why do we tend to yawn when someone else does?

While the idea that yawning increases brain oxygenation remains unproven, some evidence suggests it may be linked to circadian rhythms and attention regulation.

Contagious yawning, found mainly in humans, is believed to serve as a form of non-verbal communication, helping to synchronize group behavior. Mirror neurons, which activate during social interactions and imitation, may explain why seeing someone yawn triggers empathy and social bonding.

Source: The Conversation