I just learned the biochemical reason we feel better after crying, and it’s a game-changer for how I view emotional health. It turns out that your tears are a chemical reset for your entire system. But did you know that emotional tears have a completely different chemical recipe than, for example, the tears you shed when cutting an onion? Let’s explore the science behind crying and release the unnecessary shame we often associate with it.
Prefer to watch? I’ve put my video below or if you’re a reader simply continue reading the post.
The Surprising Chemistry of Emotional Tears
To understand this phenomenon, we can look at the incredible work of biochemist Dr. William Frey. His research uncovered a fundamental difference between types of tears. He found that reflex tears, such as those produced when you cut an onion, are composed of almost 98% water. Their primary function is to simply clear debris from the eye.
Emotional tears, on the other hand, are a powerful detox cocktail. Dr. Frey discovered they contain significantly higher levels of specific hormones and proteins. This unique chemical recipe is the key to why we feel relief after a good cry. Specifically, emotional tears contain:
- ACTH Hormone: This is directly linked to high stress. By crying, you are literally releasing this stress hormone from your body.
- Leucine Enkephalin: This is a natural painkiller and endorphin, biochemically similar to morphine, that helps regulate pain and improve your mood.
Why Your Tears Are a Chemical Reset
So, what does this all mean for you? It’s simple. When you cry from an emotion, you are not falling apart or being weak. In fact, you are engaging in a powerful and natural process of healing and release.
When you cry from an emotion, you are not falling apart. You are physically excreting stress and pain from your body. You are sweating the trauma out through your eyes.
Conversely, when you suppress a cry, you are forcing those high-stress chemicals to stay trapped inside your tissues. This internal stagnation can lead to inflammation and disrupt your body’s natural equilibrium. The profound relief you feel after crying isn’t just a psychological trick. You have literally just lowered your body’s cortisol load and performed a biological extraction of pain.
A Simple Practice to Let the Tears Flow
The next time you feel that familiar lump forming in your throat, please do not swallow it. That lump is a dam holding back the very chemical release your body needs. When you feel it, find a safe and private space and give your body permission to let go. Here is a simple process you can follow:
- Go to a safe space where you feel comfortable.
- Put your hand on your chest and give your body the command to release. You can even physically tap on your chest to help.
- If the tears don’t come immediately, try making a low “ah” sound. The vibration from this sound can often help break the dam.
- Let the tears flow until they stop naturally. Don’t force it or cut it short.
- When you are finished, wash your face with some cold water. You will feel lighter, having literally allowed a chemical reset.
Trust Your Body’s Innate Wisdom
Your body knows how to heal. It has an incredible, innate intelligence that is always working to bring you back to balance. We just need to stop interrupting it and start listening to its signals. Crying is one of its most essential tools for emotional and physical well-being.
If you’d like support on this journey and want to learn more, you can join the live events we have every single week where we go deep into this stuff. Come and grab your seat in our community, and I’ll see you there.
