The other night, as I sat watching a rom-com on T.V. (no need to display my bad taste in movies by naming the show in question), I enjoyed a good cry. Yes, I said I enjoyed crying. I’m not ashamed to admit that I am a bit of a sap, and that almost all movies from dramas, to chick flicks, and even the occasional Disney movie can bring tears to my eyes. (Watch my Well-Being Video: 5 Tear-Jerker Movies) As I’m sure a few other saps who are reading this might tell you, you often feel better after having a good sob. And many studies show that crying may actually be good for your health.

Health Benefits of Crying

Reduces stress levels. Similar to how sweat helps to removes toxins from your body, a steady stream of tears can take away some built-up toxic stress hormones. Holding back tears is said to have the opposite effect; so if you feel the urge to shed a few tears and don’t feel comfortable doing it in the open, find a private place.

Releases endorphins. After you’ve cried a bit, our endocrine system releases “feel-good” hormones that helps to stabilize our mood and enable us to feel better again.

Cleans and lubricates your eyes. Tears have great antiviral and antibacterial properties which help to naturally keep your peepers lubricated and remove any germs that have found their way in.

Social Stigma Associated with Crying

While many animals produce tears and have the capacity to feel different emotions, humans are believed to be the only animals that actually weep. This uniquely human trait often brings about negative connotations amongst adults such as weakness, instability, or incompetence.

Males, especially, are typically raised to suppress their emotions and are often forced into the strong, silent stereotype. Well, I for one have a great respect for guys who are able to convey their emotions; who, after all, wants to be with someone with the emotional depth of a rock? Besides, most women I know secretly think it’s cute if their guy gets teary-eyed from movies.

While no man (or woman) wants to be known as the Weeping Willow (especially at the office), crying is a natural, human response and lets us convey a range of emotions including happiness, sadness, frustration, or anger. So the next time you have a bad day at work and want to release some negative energy, try going to your room, playing some music and sobbing your eyes out for a bit. You might just feel better.