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