BAWLING FOR BALANCE: DISCOVER HOW CRYING CAN BOOST YOUR MOOD AND REDUCE STRESS

THEY say there’s nothing like a good cry to make you feel better, and they're right. Crying isn’t just an emotional release; it’s a natural, biological process that can improve your physical and mental well-being.

- VUYILE MADWANTSI

While society often labels crying as a sign of weakness, science tells us it’s one of the healthiest ways to process emotions.

We've all been there, that heavy moment when your throat tightens, your chest aches, and tears begin to well up. Maybe you try to fight it back.

Maybe you've been told that crying is a sign of weakness, especially if you're a man. But here’s the truth: crying is not a weakness, it’s a natural way your body helps you heal.

Science shows that crying flushes stress hormones out of your system and releases feel-good chemicals like endorphins, which can help ease both emotional and physical pain.

It’s your body’s built-in stress relief. Letting those tears flow can be the healthiest thing you do when life feels overwhelming.

The science behind tears

Did you know that not all tears are the same? Scientists have identified three types of tears, each serving a unique purpose:

1. Basal tears: These are your everyday tears that keep your eyes lubricated and free from infection.

2. Reflex tears: These help flush out irritants like smoke, dust, or even onions. Nature's way of eye maintenance.