A Salty Solution: The Surprising Health Benefits of Crying

Basal and reflex tears are great for keeping our eyes healthy, but emotional tears are in a league of their own. They contain higher levels of protein-based stress hormones like adrenocorticotropic and leucine enkephalin, which acts as a natural painkiller.

When we cry during stressful moments, our bodies kick off a series of reactions that bring both emotional and physical relief. The key player here is the parasympathetic nervous system, or PNS, which helps shift us out of that “fight or flight” mode. It slows down our heart rate, lowers our blood pressure, and promotes relaxation. This transition helps our body and mind recover from stress, often making us feel like a weight has been lifted, bringing mental clarity and a sense of calmness. Crying triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers.

And here’s something interesting: we don’t just cry when we’re sad. Tears can flow in moments of intense joy, fear, or stress. Researchers believe that in these moments, crying helps our body recover from overwhelming feelings and return to a state of emotional stability.

While crying is a natural and healthy response to emotions, frequent or persistent crying, especially when it comes with other symptoms like prolonged sadness, changes in appetite or sleep, irritability, trouble focusing, or thoughts of self-harm, might be a sign of an underlying mental health issue, like depression or anxiety. If crying is interfering with your daily life, feels out of control, or you struggle to cry when you feel the need, it’s important to seek professional help.

Crying can be a way to release emotional tension, but if we rely on it as the only outlet, emotions can build up before we find any real relief. There are proactive strategies that can help us regulate those feelings earlier, like controlled breathing. What is one of the simplest ways to boost your mood? Step outside for a walk! The steady rhythm of walking can calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and help you refocus.

Making gratitude a daily habit helps rewire your brain to see the positives in life, which can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment. Meditation is another powerful tool. It helps you stay grounded, find inner peace, and better handle whatever challenges the day throws at you. And let’s not forget the basics – healthy lifestyle habits matter. Getting enough sleep, staying active, and following a vegan diet can do wonders for your mood.