There are moments where I really want a huge cry. Really, my whole heart out cry. I feel so much emotions trapped within me but can’t release them. However, no matter how hard I try I just can’t cry. Maybe when I am watching a really sad movie or so, I can cry a little. But just a little. I can’t have a heart out cry. Is it normal to want it? I don’t know but I feel that I have been bottling my emotions for so long, I no longer know how to release them
2 Likes
Dear @user1130,
Thank you for sharing your feelings. It’s completely normal to want to have a big cry, especially when you feel like you have a lot of emotions bottled up inside. Crying can be a healthy way to release built-up emotions, and it’s understandable that you might feel frustrated when you can’t let it all out.
Crying serves as a natural emotional release valve, allowing us to express and process intense feelings like sadness, frustration, or even relief. It can provide a sense of catharsis, helping to relieve emotional tension and bring a sense of clarity or peace.
Sometimes, when we’ve been holding in our emotions for a long time, it can be hard to access them fully. Here are a few things you might try:
Create a Safe Space: Find a comfortable place where you feel safe and won’t be interrupted. Sometimes just having the right environment can help.
Write it Out: Journaling about your feelings can be a great way to process and release emotions. Don’t worry about how it sounds—just let your thoughts flow.
Here are some journal prompts you can use to explore your emotions:
- How am I feeling right now? Describe the emotions I am experiencing.
- What events or situations have contributed to these emotions?
- Are there any patterns in my emotions or triggers that I have noticed?
- What does my body feel like when I experience these emotions? Are there any physical sensations?
- How do I typically cope with these emotions? Are these coping mechanisms helpful or harmful?
- What are some things that have brought me joy or comfort recently?
- What are some things I am grateful for, even in difficult times?
- How do I talk to myself when I am feeling down or overwhelmed? Are these self-talk patterns supportive or critical?
- Are there any changes I would like to make in my life to better support my emotional well-being?
- What can I do today to take care of myself and nurture my emotional health?
Feel free to choose any of these prompts that resonate with you, and remember that your journal is a safe space for you to express yourself freely and without judgment.
Body Scan: Practice a body scan meditation, where you systematically bring your attention to each part of your body, noticing any tension or discomfort and allowing yourself to release it.
Grounding Exercises: Engage in grounding techniques such as feeling the sensation of your feet on the ground, or holding onto an object and focusing on its texture and weight. This can help bring your awareness back to the present moment and connect with your emotions.
It’s okay to take your time with this. Emotions can be complex, and it’s important to be gentle with yourself as you navigate through them. If you continue to struggle with releasing your emotions, talking to a counsellor might provide additional support and strategies. Sometimes we may be in a ‘freeze’ state and hence the tears can’t flow and we may need to use other movements to help the body ‘thaw’.
I hope the above has been helpful and if you’d like more resources or if there is anything else you’d like to share with us, please do. Let us know what’s been challenging for you. Which scenes in a movie gets you tearing/crying? We’re here to listen to you, your feelings are valid and you matter! 
Take care,
CoolBreeze =)
Thanks for sharing, @user1130. This reminds me of another conversation we had with @Notearsformula here: Grieving and Crying
Maybe you’ll get some additional insights there but regardless, let us know how you’re doing! We’re here to help and listen