The Ancient Reflex: Why We Get Goosebumps

Ever noticed tiny bumps on your skin when you’re cold or emotional? That’s your body’s

ancient reflex — goosebumps! Goosebumps happen when tiny muscles at the base of your hairs suddenly

tighten. When you’re cold, those muscles pull your hairs upright to trap a

thin layer of warm air. But goosebumps also appear when you feel fear,

excitement, or strong emotion — it’s part of your fight-or-flight response. For animals,

this reaction makes fur stand out — helping them look bigger to predators. So the next

time you get goosebumps, remember — it’s your body’s ancient way of protecting you!