Friends, Happy Hormones And Detox: How Crying Can Boost Your Health

Crying is the human body's natural response. While it is often viewed as a sign of weakness, research has shown that it is actually beneficial for mental and physical health. Not only does it boost an individual's mood but also flushes out toxins of the body. Interestingly, humans are the only members of the animal kingdom who are capable of shedding tears.

Crying is defined as the act of shedding tears. However, not many know that these tears are categorized into three types. Basal tears, which are a protein-rich antibacterial liquid, help to keep the eyes moist every time a person blinks. In addition to that, there are reflex tears which are triggered by irritants such as winds, smoke or even chopping onions. The third type of tears are the emotional ones, which are triggered by feelings of joy, gloom, loneliness, and empathy amongst others.

What is released alongside the tears are endorphins, which eventually lift the mood of a person. Several studies by the American Psychological Association (APA) have shown that crying helps to reduce emotional distress and can provide a sense of relief and calm after a stressful event.

Surprisingly, crying can also act as a natural pain reliever. Tears produced during emotional crying contain a natural analgesic called leucine-enkephalin, which can help reduce pain and enhance feelings of well-being. This is akin to the "runner's high" but achieved through emotional release.

Moreover, crying can also strengthen social bonds and bolster community building. When we cry in front of others, it often elicits empathy and support from those around us. This emotional connection can enhance relationships and improve interpersonal relationships. It is viewed as an evolutionary strategy to bond with other human beings.

Notably, emotional tears, unlike those produced by chopping onions or irritants, contain higher levels of toxins, which eventually get flushed out when we cry. This detox helps improve overall health and contributes to a sense of physical and emotional well-being. Lastly, crying is known to elevate mood and improve mental health. This mood boost can be attributed to the release of endorphins, the brain's natural mood enhancers.

While there are numerous benefits, crying for a longer period of time could be a symptom of depression. In this case, it is advisable to seek a mental health professional.