It’s a Crying Shame, or Is It?

Learn how crying can help you get through the hardest days of your lives.

Photo by Aliyah Jamous @unsplash

Crying is not only used to clear debris from our eyes and to lubricate the eyeball, it is also used as a coping mechanism.

Continuous and Reflex tears are shed automatically for the physical benefits. Emotional tears contain stress hormones exit the body.

Not only do your tears self soothe and improve your mood, they also dull pain.

Benefits include the release of oxytocin and endorphins. These feel-good chemicals can help ease both physical and emotional pain. Once the endorphins are released, your body may go into a numb stage. Oxytocin can give you a sense of calm or well-being.

Of course, crying is also a signal to others that all is not well.

Tears are not always due to sadness; people cry through pure joy, shock and even stress. Although, when crying in front of another adult, it is a sign of vulnerability and maybe pain.

If you’re crying in front of your spouse it might be a good thing. In ‘Surrendered Wife’ by Laura Doyle, the author states that when (if!) your husband ever causes you pain, it’s important to show him your vulnerable side. If he has an…