03/15/2026
Healing often involves giving yourself permission to cry.
In Japanese culture, the practice of rui-katsu, or “tear-seeking,” has gained popularity as a therapeutic way to release pent-up emotions and alleviate stress in a society often characterized by high-pressure work environments and emotional restraint and suppression.
Pioneered by figures like Hidefumi Yoshida, known as the “tear teacher,” and Hiroki Terai, rui-katsu involves intentional crying sessions—often in group settings, seminars, or even walking tours—where participants watch poignant films, read heartfelt letters, or engage in discussions to provoke tears, fostering emotional catharsis and a sense of refreshment.
I “prescribe” this to my telehealth patients by integrating it with somatic practices like somatic practices or restorative yoga poses to ground them in the present moment and encourage emotional flow; vagal nerve stimulation techniques such as deep diaphragmatic breathing, humming, vagal nerve stimulation or cold water face immersion to activate the parasympathetic response; and other accessible methods including guided journaling prompts for grief processing, curated playlists of music, all tailored to help their body know that it’s safe to let go and begin to heal.
