A study in the 1980s found that women cry an average of 5.3 times per month while men cry an average of 1.3 times per month. A newer study found that the average duration for a crying session was eight minutes. Science has proven that crying is generally good for our health with the following points:
- BLOOD PRESSURE
Studies have shown that crying not only lowers the blood pressure and keeps it in check, but an intense crying session can also steady the pulse. High blood pressure can lead to several serious health issues like stroke, heart attack, heart failure, dementia, and even kidney failure. - TOXINS ACCUMULATION
Crying can clear debris, like smoke and dust, from the eyes. Also, when we cry, our teardrops flush toxins that get accumulated in the body due to stress. This removal of toxins helps reduce the cortisol levels in the body, thereby resulting in a lighter mood. Therefore, it’s not surprising that we often feel the heaviness go away after a good crying session. - STRESS
A 2014 study found that crying may help people relax during stressful times. The crying results are not immediate, and it might well take a couple of minutes before the body begins to relax.According to the researchers, crying activates the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). When activated, the PNS has a calming effect on the brain. - MOOD SWINGS
Mood swings can happen due to various reasons. One such reason is the accumulation of manganese in the body.When we cry, this excess manganese flows out of the body along with our teardrops. This reduces its concentration in the body and, as a result, makes you feel calm and focused. - PAIN
Research has found that in addition to being self-soothing, shedding emotional tears releases oxytocin and endorphins. These chemicals make people feel good and may also ease both physical and emotional pain.
Crying can be due to both pain and happiness. How often do you cry, and do you feel relieved afterwards?
