Crying. It’s something we often associate with things going wrong—heartbreak, loss, frustration. But what happens when the tears flow even when everything seems fine? You might be sitting in the back of a cab, everything is okay, and suddenly you’re overcome with emotion. What gives?
Let’s face it: we humans have some seriously normal habits that we tend to think of as weird. The truth is, there’s not much weird out there, just a lot of unknowns. Sure, we’re all uniquely special, but unless it has a negative impact on your health, who really cares?
Why We Cry When Things Are Fine
So, why do we cry when there’s no apparent reason? The short answer is that crying is a natural and healthy bodily function. Just like laughing, yawning, or even sneezing, crying is one of the ways our body regulates itself. It’s not always about sadness; it can be a response to joy, relief, or even just feeling overwhelmed by the beauty of life.
Here’s the thing: our bodies are constantly processing emotions, stress, and all the stimuli we encounter in our daily lives. Sometimes, our brains can’t keep up with all the information being processed, and the result is tears. It’s a release—a way for your body to hit the reset button and start fresh.
In fact, crying is a great way to release stress chemicals. Research has shown that emotional tears contain higher levels of stress hormones like cortisol, which means that when you cry, you’re actually purging your body of these toxins. It’s like giving your emotional health a deep clean.
The Stigma of Crying: Why Do We Judge?
Despite the benefits, crying often carries a stigma. In many cultures, crying is seen as a sign of weakness, especially for men. We’ve been conditioned to believe that strong people don’t cry, that tears are something to be hidden or ashamed of. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
The reality is that crying is a sign of strength. It takes courage to show vulnerability, to allow yourself to feel deeply and express those feelings openly. Whether you’re a sensitive soul who cries at the drop of a hat or someone who only cries once in a blue moon, your tears are a natural and important part of your emotional well-being.
If you’re someone who’s judgey about criers, it’s time to rethink that perspective. Being around a tear-filled companion can be uncomfortable, but it’s also an opportunity to practice empathy. Instead of feeling awkward or embarrassed, try to offer support. Sometimes, all a person needs is a listening ear and the space to let those tears flow.
The Science Behind Crying: More Than Just Tears
Tears are more than just a salty liquid that streams down our faces when we’re upset. There are actually three types of tears:
- Basal Tears: These are the everyday tears that keep our eyes lubricated and protected from dust and debris.
- Reflex Tears: These tears are produced in response to irritants like onions, smoke, or bright lights.
- Emotional Tears: These are the tears we shed when we’re feeling emotional, whether it’s sadness, joy, or frustration.
Emotional tears are unique because they contain stress hormones and other chemicals that aren’t found in basal or reflex tears. This means that when you cry, you’re not just expressing how you feel—you’re also physically releasing stress and tension from your body. It’s a powerful way to reset and restore balance.
Why You Shouldn’t Hold Back Your Tears
Holding back tears might seem like the “strong” thing to do, but it can actually be harmful to your health. When you suppress your emotions, they don’t just disappear. Instead, they can manifest in other ways, like increased anxiety, depression, or even physical symptoms like headaches or digestive issues.
On the flip side, letting yourself cry when you need to can be incredibly healing. It’s a way of acknowledging your feelings and giving them the space they deserve. Plus, crying can help you connect with others. When you allow yourself to be vulnerable, you’re opening the door to deeper, more meaningful relationships.
Embrace the Cry: It’s Good for You!
The next time you feel the tears welling up, don’t fight it. Embrace the cry! Here’s why:
- Stress Relief: As mentioned earlier, crying helps release stress hormones, which can leave you feeling lighter and more relaxed.
- Emotional Clarity: After a good cry, you might find that you have a clearer perspective on whatever was bothering you. Crying can help you process your emotions and come to terms with difficult situations.
- Improved Mood: It might seem counterintuitive, but crying can actually improve your mood. Studies have shown that people often feel better after a cry, thanks to the release of endorphins (the body’s natural feel-good chemicals).
- Physical Benefits: Crying can also have physical benefits, like lowering your blood pressure and reducing your heart rate. It’s a natural way to calm your body and mind.
Letting Go of the Fear of Tears
If you’re someone who’s afraid to cry or feels embarrassed about it, it’s time to let go of that fear. Crying is a normal, healthy part of being human, and there’s no shame in it. In fact, by allowing yourself to cry, you’re taking an important step toward better emotional health.
And if you’re on the other side of things—someone who’s uncomfortable around criers—take a moment to reconsider your reaction. Instead of seeing tears as a sign of weakness, try to view them as a sign of strength and authenticity. Offer support, listen without judgment, and remember that sometimes the best thing you can do is simply be there.
The Popped Community: A Safe Space for Every Emotion
At Popped, we’re all about embracing every part of yourself—including the parts that cry. Our community is a space where you can let your guard down, be your true self, and yes, even shed a few tears. Whether you’re attending one of our events, working on a project, or just hanging out, know that a box of tissues is never far away.
We believe that emotional health is just as important as physical health, and we’re here to support you in every way. So, the next time you feel like crying, whether it’s out of joy, sadness, or just because, remember that you’re not alone. The Popped community is here for you, ready to offer a listening ear, a comforting word, or simply a space to let those tears flow.
Cry Like You Mean It: The Final Word
In the wise words of Elsa from Frozen, it’s time to “let it go.” Cry like you mean it, and don’t hold back. Whether you’re crying in the back of a cab, in the comfort of your own home, or even in the middle of a busy street, know that your tears are a natural and healthy part of life.
So go ahead, let those tears flow. After all, they’re just another way of taking care of yourself. And when you’re not crying, remember to take care of your other needs too—whether it’s connecting with others, nurturing your creative side, or simply taking a moment to breathe.
Here’s to crying, to letting go, and to embracing all the beautifully human ways we express ourselves. Cry like you mean it, and remember: it’s good for you, and the Popped community is always here to support you.