Is it ok to cry?

Let me cry ... please!

There’s nothing as therapeutic ... as a good cry!

Crying is not a sign of weakness! Crying is a emotional experience that releases healing hormones and triggers responses, in the mind and body, to overcome the sadness and anxiety we are feeling!

A recent study showed that 85 percent of women and 73 percent of men feel less sad and angry after shedding some tears.

So why do we say things to our loved ones, such as ...

• It ok dear ...
• Don't cry it will be alright ...
• Let's see a smile on that pretty face ...
• Head up, and soldier on dear ...
• Suck it up and get back to work ...

The person's response might be ...

• If it were ok, I would not be crying
• If I thought it was going to ok, I would not be so sad
• I don't feel like smiling, I am feeling sad and anxious
• I am not a soldier ... I need time to process this
• I am not ready to get back to work ... I need a few moments

The reason we say these things is that when someone cries we feel anxious and uncomfortable. We were probably raised hearing the same phrases ... there, there dear .. it is alright, don't cry!

So as Adults, we console our children and close friends by repeating what we were told and yes, the tears dry up ... but has the person resolved their pain or anxiety? Probably not ... they have not had time to process all of their feelings and are left with unreleased stress and anxiety.

Did you know that crying has been proven to lower blood pressure and the pulse rate immediately following therapy sessions, where they cried to release pent up anger, hurt and anxiety.

Crying also reduces the body’s manganese level, which impacts mood and is found at a higher volume in tears than in the blood. Elevated manganese levels are often associated with anxiety, irritability and aggression.

Some mammals appear to produce tears, but humans are the only species to shed tears in response to emotional stress. In fact, crying signals trust and understanding in relationships, elicits compassion and draws individuals closer to one another.

When was the last time you had a good TEAM CRY?

When you, or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed and fighting back tears, find a quiet place to cry together, be supportive and connect, letting it all go together!

It might very well be exactly what you both need!

What???

Crying Therapy ... that is going too far, Allan!

I totally disagree ... in hypnotherapy, we often touch on sensitive and emotional memories or feelings and the tears often flow freely. Encouraging a client to cry and "to let it all out" gives them permission to be vulnerable and safe in my care. This lowers their resistence and allows them, often for the first time, to "let it go" .. to release the stress, anxiety, pain and allow the natural healing to take place!

It is the most wonderful experience, ever!

So the next time somone you love is crying ... instead of saying "It's ok, dear, don't cry" say "Let's both let it go, so we both can heal"

Awaken Your Potential

Love to all ...

Allan Curtis

Certified Professional Hypnotist