It seems that crying to certain music is a universal human experience. Music can inspire worshipers to devotion or drive them to battle. But why does music make us cry? The answer to that question is complex. Several factors have been studied. Here are some theories. Those who are prone to crying can learn from those who don’t. And the answer may surprise you! Keep reading to learn more. But first, let’s get some background on music.
The brain’s cerebellum is involved. This structure has the ability to track changes in musical sounds and emotions. Researchers have speculated that music can make us cry because of its effect on the cerebellum. Some researchers believe this is the case, as they have found that people with high levels of neuroticism and extraversion are more likely to cry when they hear sad music. Music can also trigger feelings of awe and sadness in people with high levels of these two personality attributes.
Another study looked at the physical effects of music. Music that makes people cry is associated with increased heart rate, sweating, and breathing. The corresponding physiological changes, however, are not associated with music’s quality. Music that makes people cry is typically cathartic. If this is the case, then it is no wonder that it causes chills. This is because chills trigger the parasympathetic nervous system, which increases the release of dopamine, the feel-good hormone.
