Healthy Living

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Feeling Weepy? The Amazing Thing a Good Cry Can Do for Your Health

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Yesterday, one of my best friends emailed me to share some very sad news that I did not see coming (she couldn't bare to tell me in person, she explained, as it was just too hard for her to talk about). I was so shaken, I tried to go about my day as normal but I couldn't. I was so saddened by her news that I finally gave in to the tears welling up and just sat on the couch and cried--big fat tears (until my concerned 2 year old gave me a big hug!). Next time you're feeling weepy, just let the tears out, say health experts. Here's why you shouldn't hold them back (or feel bad about it)...

Biochemist William Frey, who is known for studying, of all things, tears (what a job!), has discovered some pretty interesting things about tears. This little tidbit from Divine Caroline caught my eye:

"Emotional tears--those formed in distress or grief--contained more toxic byproducts than tears of irritation (think onion peeling). Are tears toxic then? No! They actually remove toxins from our body that build up courtesy of stress. They are like a natural therapy or massage session, but they cost a lot less!"

Fascinating, huh?

Related: How To Instantly Stop Yourself From Crying When You Feel Like Bursting Into Tears

I don't know if I'd say I feel good after crying, but I do feel a sense of healing or restoration. It feels good to release the emotions that are building up--and now I know that I'm getting rid of some toxins, too.

When's the last time you had a good cry? Are you weepy or sort of stoic? (Sometimes I wish I could keep a better poker face, but the fact is, I tend to wear my emotions on my sleeve!)

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Comments 1-6 of 6
  • Jas's Avatar
    Posted by Jas Tue Dec 1, 2009 6:16am PST

    Feeling Weepy? The Amazing Thing a Good Cry Can Do for Your Health.:)

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  • VictoriaB's Avatar
    Posted by VictoriaB Tue Dec 1, 2009 7:46am PST

    I agree. I usually feel a sense of catharsis after a good cry. I just don't like to let anyone see me do it. I try to hold it in until I get home. Crying in public makes others uncomfortable.

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  • michelle's Avatar
    Posted by michelle Tue Dec 1, 2009 9:14am PST

    I cried yesterday night when I found out that my uncle's cancer is back and very bad. We need to cry. It lets out emotion. Think about it; we are able to cry so why do people see it as a bad thing. I have always felt better after a good cry. It is better then keeping all that emotion in your body.

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  • Helen's Avatar
    Posted by Helen Tue Dec 1, 2009 3:23pm PST

    I agree crying is a good thing because I know that if there is alot of stress and things are not going right and you need to cry I find that it helps me alot and I feel better afterwards.

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  • jen's Avatar
    Posted by jen Tue Dec 1, 2009 3:57pm PST

    Crying is a necessity for all. there is no shame in it.

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  • Mauna's Avatar
    Posted by Mauna Wed Dec 2, 2009 5:06am PST

    Yes, a good cry, helps to not only heal a broken soul, but also cleanse it from any other matters, that were not appropriately dealt with from the person if not also having to hear sad news...Nevertheless crying helps soothe a sombered soul.

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