We feel it every once in a while: a lump in our throat, a burning in our eyes, and then warm tears welling up in them. Whether it’s joy, grief, awe, or something undefinable, the experience is ...

We have all seen this moment countless times: a baby enters the world and bursts into tears. It is so common that we rarely stop to wonder why it happens. Why do newborns cry instantly after birth?

All humans cry. Some of our tears are meant to keep our eyes moist and healthy. Others clean out the eye from dust, pollens and other pollutants. Emotional tears play another role. Although triggered ...

Photo credit: Shutterstock.com / AJR_photo. That box of tissues isn’t just for mopping up your emotions—those tears you’ve been holding back at work, in traffic, or during that commercial with the ...