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Why Do We Sigh When We Cry?

Published in Emotional Regulation 2 mins read

We sigh when we cry because sighing can act as a release for built-up negative emotions, such as sadness, which often accompany crying.

The Connection Between Sighing and Crying

When we experience strong emotions, our bodies react in various ways. Crying, of course, is a visible manifestation of sadness or other powerful feelings. But it's not just tears; our breathing patterns can also change. Sighing, a deeper and longer inhalation followed by a prolonged exhalation, is one such change.

Emotional Release

According to the provided reference, sighing is a way our body attempts to manage intense emotions:

  • Releasing Pent-Up Feelings: Sighing serves as a mechanism to release pent-up emotions, especially those that are negative, such as frustration, disappointment, or sadness. Crying itself can be emotionally draining, and the sigh can provide a much-needed release of that emotional tension.
  • Providing Relief: The act of sighing can bring a sense of relief, easing the emotional burden of crying. This can be a subconscious attempt to shift the emotional state towards a more positive one.

Physiological Aspects

While the primary driver for sighing when we cry is emotional, there are also physiological aspects to consider:

  • Breathing Regulation: Crying often involves irregular breathing patterns. A sigh can help to reset the breathing rhythm, allowing for a deeper and more complete intake of air.
  • Muscle Relaxation: The deep inhalation and exhalation involved in sighing can contribute to muscle relaxation, which may be beneficial after experiencing the physical tension associated with crying.

Summary

Here's a simple breakdown:

Aspect Description
Emotion Crying is tied to strong emotions; sighing releases built-up sadness.
Psychology Sighing offers relief and contributes to a more positive emotional state.
Physiology Sighing helps regulate breathing and can contribute to muscle relaxation after the physical tension of crying.

Therefore, when we cry, the sigh acts as a natural mechanism to help us regulate our emotions and return to a more stable state. It's a physiological and psychological response that helps manage the intensity of crying.