It might be difficult to comprehend the vast web of various biological cycles and systems that make up our body. One such system is the body’s defense mechanisms. They keep us safe from a variety of threats around the clock, every day of the week.

These are eight amazing things your body performs that you might not be aware are defense mechanisms:

Why do we sigh? Yawns are primarily used to replenish oxygen in the brain after it has become overheated or overwhelmed.

Why do we sneeze? We typically sneeze when too many allergens, bacteria, dust, or other irritating materials get into our nasal passages. The body uses sneezing as a means of expelling this “garbage.”

For what reason do we extend? Stretching is our natural way of getting our bodies ready for the physical work of the day ahead of us. We increase blood flow, lengthen our muscles, and elevate our spirits by making this gesture.

Why do we occasionally hiccup? The vagus nerve might get irritated when we eat too quickly, swallow big portions of food, or overindulge. The hiccup is a result of the diaphragm being irritated and the stomach expanding due to this discomfort.

Why do wrinkles appear on our skin? This effect arises from the body’s perception of a potentially slippery environment amid increased humidity levels, which prompts protective measures.

Why do we jolt when we’re asleep? Myoclonus is the term for the weird sensation you get when you’re sleeping that briefly makes you feel like you’re being electrocuted and gives you a start. The muscles contract so forcefully that you feel as though you might tumble out of bed at this point. This phenomena happens because your respiration and pulse rates slow down and your muscles relax as you go to sleep. The brain tries to wake you up because it believes you are dying.

What gives us “goosebumps”? The main purpose of “goosebumps” is to assist the body retain heat in adverse weather conditions by lowering the amount of heat lost through pores.

Why do we cry? Tears act as an emotional defense mechanism in addition to shielding the mucous membrane of the eye from foreign substances.