Crying is a universal human expression, a natural response to intense emotions, from profound sadness to overwhelming joy. Many people find themselves puzzled by a subsequent sensation of coldness. This feeling is a common, yet often misunderstood, physiological aftermath of emotional release. Exploring the body’s internal mechanisms can help clarify why this unexpected chill occurs.
Physiological Changes During Crying
When strong emotions trigger crying, the body initiates a “fight or flight” response, preparing for intense situations. This response is primarily managed by the sympathetic nervous system, which becomes highly active.
The adrenal glands release a surge of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline causes heart rate to increase and blood pressure to rise, providing a quick burst of energy.
Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, increases glucose in the bloodstream, enhancing the brain’s use of sugar. These hormonal changes redirect energy and resources throughout the body, preparing it for immediate action.
Sympathetic activation also leads to increased muscle tension as the body braces itself. This heightened state of readiness consumes energy. Various organ systems contribute to this energy expenditure during the acute stress response.
The Connection to Body Temperature
The physiological changes during crying directly influence body temperature. The sympathetic nervous system’s activation causes vasoconstriction, the narrowing of blood vessels, particularly in the skin. This reduces blood flow to the body’s surface, redirecting it towards vital organs and larger muscles, helping to conserve core body heat.
The energy expended during crying, from muscle contractions to tear production, also contributes to a feeling of depletion. This energy use can lead to a slight drop in overall body temperature or a perception of coldness as the body utilizes its reserves. Furthermore, the evaporation of tears from the skin and any accompanying perspiration can create a cooling effect on the body’s surface, similar to how sweat cools the skin during physical exertion.
Post-Crying Recovery
As the emotional intensity of crying begins to subside, the body gradually shifts from the “fight or flight” state towards a “rest and digest” response. This transition is managed by the parasympathetic nervous system, which works to calm the body and restore balance. This shift does not happen instantaneously.
The body’s prior energy expenditure during crying, coupled with the residual effects of vasoconstriction, can leave an individual feeling fatigued and somewhat cold. As adrenaline and cortisol levels slowly decrease, heart rate and blood pressure return to typical levels. The body works to re-regulate its temperature and energy balance, which can take some time, explaining the lingering sensation of chilliness and exhaustion after an emotional release.