In today’s fast-paced world, many people neglect their emotional well-being, leading to increased stress from work and life pressures. However, there’s an unexpected yet effective remedy for this: crying.
Yes, Even Adults Need to Cry.
Crying is a natural emotional response, whether triggered by sadness, joy, or frustration. Yet, many adults shy away from shedding tears, particularly in front of others. This hesitation often stems from societal biases that associate crying with weakness or immaturity. Some view it as a sign of vulnerability or an inability to handle life’s challenges.
But science tells a different story. Crying offers far more benefits than meets the eye—especially when it comes to your health. Tears help cleanse the eyes by flushing out dust and harmful toxins, and they also moisturize and protect against infections.
Beyond physical health, crying can serve as a powerful emotional release. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), promoting relaxation and calm. Additionally, crying triggers the release of feel-good chemicals like oxytocin and endorphins, providing relief from both physical and emotional pain.
When you’re feeling stuck, tears can act as an emotional “SOS signal,” inviting sympathy and support from those around you. In this way, crying not only helps relieve stress but also strengthens bonds with others.
Given these benefits, it’s clear that crying is more than just an emotional outburst—it’s an essential tool for improving mood, reducing stress, and deepening human connections. So, don’t hold back your tears. Cry when you need to—it’s a healthy, natural way to cope with life’s pressures.
Japan’s Unique Approach to Crying
Let’s take a look at Japan, where crying has been culturally suppressed. According to a 2017 National Geographic study, Japan has one of the lowest rates of crying globally. Culturally, sadness and anger are often hidden, leading many to internalize their emotions—sometimes with devastating consequences. Japan also ranks among the highest in global suicide rates, partly attributed to unaddressed emotional distress.
Research shows that crying stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body calm down. Read more about the science behind crying here
To address this, Japan has embraced an unusual solution: crying therapy sessions. One notable example is the therapy class founded by businessman and philosopher Hiroki Terai in 2013. Participants watch sad movies or listen to emotional stories to encourage crying, with the goal of relieving built-up stress. Terai’s method has received positive feedback from participants who report feeling significantly better after crying.
This realization that crying can be therapeutic has even led to the rise of a new profession: the “crying teacher” (or namida sensei). Hidefumi Yoshida, one of Japan’s most experienced crying instructors, facilitates sessions where participants watch emotional content designed to provoke tears. Many attendees share that these sessions marked the first time they had truly allowed themselves to cry, having previously bottled up their emotions. Yoshida’s work has expanded to universities and businesses, where he collaborates to improve the mental health of students and employees.
How to Cry Effectively
For many young people, stress from family, work, and relationships can feel overwhelming. But how can you cry in a way that truly helps relieve tension? Here are some tips:
1. Find a Safe Space
You’re most likely to cry freely when you feel safe. Lauren Bylsma, a researcher from the University of Pittsburgh who studies crying, found that people typically cry at home, either alone or in the company of close friends or family.
2. Seek Empathy
Research shows that crying can be more emotionally fulfilling if it’s met with sympathy and support. Surround yourself with people who care about you—whether they’re friends, family, or a partner—who can offer comfort during tough times.
While crying serves as a natural mechanism for emotional release, pairing it with open dialogue can further enhance emotional well-being. Engaging in conversations about our feelings allows for deeper understanding and connection. For more insights on the role of communication in overcoming emotional struggles, consider reading Why Dialogue is Key to Overcoming Emotional Struggles.
3. Don’t Hold Back
Crying is not a sign of weakness; it’s a display of emotional honesty. Allow yourself to cry loudly and openly. Embracing your emotions is often the best way to move forward.
4. Give Yourself Permission to Cry
Think of crying as a form of emotional self-care. Allow yourself to fully experience the release. For added comfort, listen to a song or watch a movie that resonates with your emotions and can help bring your feelings to the surface.
FAQs
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How does crying help reduce stress?
Crying activates the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), which helps the body rest and digest, leading to a calming effect. Additionally, emotional tears release stress hormones and other toxins from the body, potentially reducing stress levels.
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What chemicals are released during crying that improve mood?
When we cry, our bodies release oxytocin and endogenous opioids (commonly known as endorphins). These chemicals can ease both physical and emotional pain, providing a sense of relief and well-being.
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Is it true that crying can strength
Yes, crying can serve as a non-verbal signal indicating the need for support, which can foster empathy and strengthen social bonds. This shared emotional experience can bring people closer together.
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Are there cultural differences in attitudes toward crying?
Cultural norms significantly influence attitudes toward crying. For instance, in Japan, crying is often suppressed due to cultural perceptions of emotional expression. However, initiatives like “crying therapy” sessions have been introduced to encourage emotional release and improve mental health.
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How can one create an environment conducive to the beneficial effects of crying?
To maximizeng benefits of crying, it’s important to find a safe and comfortable environment. Being in a supportive setting, either alone or with trusted individuals, can enhance the emotional release and subsequent relief that crying provides.
In life, adults need to cry just as much as children. Shedding tears isn’t a sign of weakness—in fact, it offers numerous benefits for both your health and emotional well-being. So, don’t suppress your emotions. Embrace your tears as a healthy outlet and even plan moments for intentional crying when life becomes overwhelming.
Have you ever experienced the calming effects of a good cry? Share your thoughts or stories in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
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