“Crying is all right in its way while it lasts. But you have to stop sooner or later, and then you still have to decide what to do.” – C.S. Lewis
Crying is our emotional connection with the world. This simple act is often seen as a weakness when it actually demonstrates the strength in us. It allows us to celebrate the positive and helps us to let go of the negative things in our lives.
There are three types of tears:
Continuous tears that keep the surface around the eye moist in order to protect against infection.
Reflex tears that flow when something irritates the eye area.
Emotional tears that have a different chemical make-up and can be a natural painkiller.
Regardless of the type of tears you are shedding, crying is a natural reaction of our body and one that promotes a healthier mind.
HERE ARE SEVEN REASONS WHY IT IS PERFECTLY OKAY TO CRY:
1. TEARS HELP YOU LET GO AND MOVE ON.
Pretending everything is okay doesn’t solve anything, and all it does is lead to a wealth of pent-up emotions. A good cry is a great way to release the need to hold onto something that is no longer of service. Carrying around emotional baggage can affect your mental health so cry and let it out.
2. TEARS HAVE NUMEROUS HEALTH BENEFITS.
Crying releases toxins and kills bacteria. It is our body’s natural defense mechanism against all those pesky germs found in common public places. Our body is designed to protect us and will take any necessary measure to prevent bacteria from getting in. It also works to get rid of foreign elements, so remember that next time you try to stop the tears.
3. TEARS HELP RELEASE HIGH LEVELS OF STRESS.
Crying “is believed to release stress hormones or toxins from the body,” says Lauren Bylsma, a PhD student at the University of South Florida in Tampa. Crying is a function of the parasympathetic nervous system that is responsible for relaxation. When you cry, you are likely releasing stress as your body begins to relax. That is why a good cry feels so good.
4. TEARS HELP PROCESS GRIEF AND LOSS.
“To weep is to make less the depth of grief.” – William Shakespeare
Losing someone or something that is important is tragic. It is a feeling that engulfs you to the point that the only relief happens through tears and a good hug from a close friend.
We often hold back our tears to make it easy for others, but that is not the best approach for us. Don’t pretend to be strong just to make others feel more comfortable.
Instead, focus on what you need to get through that moment. Crying can be comforting, and your tears become your best friend as you work through your loss.
