Have you ever taken a moment to think about the last time you cried? For me, it was just last week. Crying is usually seen as a sign of weakness, but it’s actually one of the body’s natural self-regulating mechanisms. Tears contain stress hormones that, when released, help bring about a sense of calm and relaxation, making it one of the most effective ways to self-soothe and relieve tension.
Science Behind Crying
- Crying triggers the release of feel-good hormones that alleviate pains
- Crying can be helpful in processing emotions and experiences
- Crying activates the central nervous system, which helps to calm you down
- Crying helps you identify what is important to you
- Crying is a way to restore, emotional balance
It’s worth noting that when we see someone crying, we naturally feel their pain. This happens because our brain’s “mirror neurons” fire, allowing us to empathize with other people’s emotions. We tend to want to comfort them because we think it’s the kind thing to do, but in reality, we want to stop hurting too.
Next time you come across someone who’s crying, try to “sit” with them in their sorrow. It may be difficult, but just being present and acknowledging their pain can be incredibly comforting. Remember, crying is a natural method for releasing tension and stress, both emotionally and physically.
If you’ve ever considered how you react when you see someone crying, it’s important to understand that comforting them is a natural reaction. It’s not just because we want to alleviate their pain, but also because we want to alleviate our own. The most effective way to support someone who is crying is by being present with them in their sorrow.