Yawning, psychologically speaking, is a physiological exercise that is peculiar to all vertebrates, which encompasses the stretching of muscles, breathing in and breathing out. It is normal to humans, and it is a reflex action stimulated by external impulses unwillingly.
In this article, we will consider the spiritual meaning of yawning while praying, and how to stop it. Keep on reading to know more about it and what it symbolizes.
What is the meaning of yawning during prayer?
Modern neuroscience explains yawning as a body mechanism to remove overheated blood from our skull whenever there is an increase in the temperature of the skull (regarded as Thermoregulation).
Yawning is commonly seen in humans when they just woke up from bed, or they are feeling sleepy and getting ready for bed. And as such, praying during this period of the day can spur you to yawn.
So, why do I yawn every time I pray?
Here are different reasons why you yawn when you pray.
1. Praying after a stressful day.
Most people prefer to go to bed immediately after they get home after going through a stressful day. However, you understand that as a Christian, you are expected to fellowship with God, your Father, in prayer. Most busy people do this before going to bed. Considering how tired you may be, it might cause you to yawn because yawning is part of people’s response to stress and tiredness after a very long day.
2. Boredom or lack of interest.
This is also part of why most believers yawn during prayer. It often signifies distraction and a lack of interest in what you are doing or saying. When you pray, your spirit, soul, and body are expected to participate fully in the act.
Some will even say, “I don’t feel like praying”. Prayer isn’t about your feelings; it’s an act of trust and dependence on God. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray without ceasing”. That is, you must pray without being tired, irrespective of your feelings.
3. Sign of spiritual lukewarmness.
This is a dangerous state a believer should avoid being in. It is when you appear spiritual, but the warmth and zeal of spirituality are not showing in what you do. It’s connected with self-complacency; not being satisfied with oneself or who God has made you to be. In this case, yawning, as a sign of discontentment, is inevitable (Revelation 3: 16-17).
How to stop yawning while praying
Although yawning is an involuntary action, it can still be controlled during prayer. Here are things you can do to stop;
- Embrace a regular sleeping schedule
- Exercise often during the daytime to lessen work stress, and encourage effective prayer.
- Avoid electronic devices around your prayer altar to prevent distractions.
- Pray for strength as your start.
Conclusion
Most people regard yawning during prayer as being disrespectful; while some see it as not being rude, but a sign of sleepiness or tiredness. Nevertheless, you are to determine what the meaning is based on your current physical disposition when you pray.
