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The Incredible Health Benefits of Crying

Have you ever felt embarrassed or ashamed after crying in public? Well, we have news for you! Crying is actually good for you and has incredible health benefits. That’s right, shedding a few tears can actually improve your overall health and well-being.

In this article, we’ll dive into the science behind crying and the many health benefits it provides. From relieving stress and anxiety to boosting your immune system, you won’t believe what a good cry can do for you!

The Science Behind Crying

Before we dive into the health benefits of crying, let’s talk about the science behind it. When we cry, our bodies release tears which contain stress hormones and toxins. Crying is a way for our bodies to release these toxins and reduce stress levels.

In addition, crying releases endorphins, which are our body’s natural painkillers. Endorphins can help relieve physical and emotional pain, which is why crying can make us feel better.

Did you know that there are actually three different types of tears? Basal tears are produced continuously to keep the eyes lubricated, reflex tears are produced in response to an irritant like smoke or onions, and emotional tears are produced in response to a range of emotions, from happiness to sadness.

Emotional tears have been the focus of most scientific research on crying. Studies have shown that emotional tears contain more protein, hormones, and other stress-related substances than basal or reflex tears. These substances are believed to be responsible for the health benefits of crying.

The Health Benefits Of Crying

Now that we understand the science behind crying, let’s talk about the many health benefits it provides. Here are just a few:

1. Relieves Stress And Anxiety

Crying can help relieve stress and anxiety by releasing toxins and reducing the levels of stress hormones in our bodies. It’s a natural way to calm our minds and bodies. In fact, studies have shown that people who cry during stressful situations actually feel better afterward.

2. Improves Mood

When we cry, our bodies release endorphins which can help improve our mood and make us feel better. This is why crying is often described as a “release” or a “weight lifted off our shoulders”.

3. Boosts The Immune System

Tears contain lysozyme, which is a natural antibacterial and antiviral agent. Crying can help boost the immune system and protect against illness. In fact, one study found that people who cried during a sad movie had higher levels of antibodies in their tears than those who didn’t cry.

4. Reduces Inflammation

Studies have shown that crying can reduce inflammation in the body, which can help prevent chronic diseases. Chronic inflammation is linked to a range of health problems, from heart disease to cancer.

5. Helps Us Cope With Loss

Crying is a natural way for us to cope with loss and grief. It allows us to process our emotions and can help us move forward. In fact, one study found that people who cried after the death of a loved one experienced less physical and emotional distress than those who didn’t cry.

How To Embrace Crying

Now that we know the incredible health benefits of crying, it’s time to embrace it. Here are a few tips:

1. Don’t Hold Back

Let yourself cry when you feel the need. Holding back tears can actually increase stress levels and make you feel worse. It’s okay to cry, and it’s a natural way for our bodies to release emotions.

2. Watch A Sad Movie Or Listen To Sad Music

Sometimes we need a little help to get the tears flowing. Watching a sad movie or listening to sad music can help us release our emotions. It’s a good idea to choose a movie or song that resonates with you and your emotions. This can help you connect with the emotions you’re feeling and allow you to release them through tears.

3. Talk To A Friend Or Therapist

Sometimes talking to someone about our problems can make us feel better and help us process our emotions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to reach out to a friend or therapist for support. They can provide a listening ear and help you work through your emotions.

4. Practice Self-Care

Taking care of ourselves can help reduce stress levels and make us feel better. Make time for activities that make you happy and reduce stress levels. This could be anything from taking a relaxing bath to going for a walk in nature.

5. Keep A Journal

Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a great way to process emotions and release them. You can write about anything that’s on your mind, whether it’s something that’s bothering you or something that’s bringing you joy.

Conclusion

Crying is not a sign of weakness, but a natural and healthy way for our bodies to release toxins and reduce stress levels. So the next time you feel like crying, don’t hold back! Embrace the tears and know that it’s actually good for your overall health and well-being.

Remember, it’s okay to feel emotions and it’s important to allow yourself to release them in a healthy way. Whether you cry alone or with someone else, just know that it’s a natural and normal response to a range of emotions.

So go ahead, grab a tissue and let the tears flow. Your body and mind will thank you for it.

Author

  • Dr. Bradley Lynch

    Dr. Bradley Lynch is a board-certified sports medicine physician with a Bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Michigan and a medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He completed his residency training in Family Medicine at the University of California, San Diego and a fellowship in Sports Medicine at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic. With over 10 years of experience in the medical field, Dr. Lynch is an expert in sports injuries, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and overall health and wellness. As an author at FitGAG, he shares his knowledge and expertise on a variety of topics, including sports injury prevention, musculoskeletal ultrasound techniques, and overall health and wellness tips. Dr. Lynch believes that a holistic approach to health and wellness is essential for optimal performance and well-being, and he strives to inspire his readers to prioritize movement, proper nutrition, and self-care. Through his articles, Dr. Lynch aims to empower his readers to achieve their fitness goals, overcome injuries, and enhance their overall quality of life.

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