One might expect that as a psychotherapist, I see more tears than the average person. In actuality, I see quite a bit of anger, frustration, hopelessness and worry, but not as many tears as might be expected. Today my schedule was full, and there were tears in almost every hour.
Why This is a GOOD Thing
Dr. William Frey II, Ph.D. found that emotional tears are very complex. They assist us in shedding stress hormones; toxins that reduce our ability to function. http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/emotional-freedom/201007/the-health-benefits-tears
Crying has also been linked to the release of endorphins. Endorphins numb pain and improve mood. Generally after crying, our breathing, sweating, and heart rate decrease, and we enter a more relaxed state.
In my experience, crying is often a sign of openness. While there are different states that go along with different types of crying, in it’s purest form it demonstrates a vulnerability and connection where the crier is open to letting others in to their personal world. This sincere connection serves to heal emotional scars.
So, do I feel sad about my day that was filled with tears? Not at all. I feel humbled that others allowed themselves to let me in to their pain and that together in a healing relationship we can build newness in the core of who they are and what they experience.
