Beyond5k

I hesitated to share this, but last week, I experienced something so extraordinary that I couldn’t keep it to myself.

It all starts with me watching a video of a young woman called Felicity climbing a hill in the Lake District. At the summit, she burst into tears — overcome by the majesty of the surroundings. Sure, the scenery was stunning, but I found it odd that someone should burst into tears when doing something they enjoy. A few months later, I found myself in a similar situation — running alone along the canal on a glorious spring morning when, out of nowhere, tears streamed down my face! What on earth had just happened!? It caught me off guard, but after some reflection (and a bit of Googling), I realised it made perfect sense.

Why Do We Cry in Moments of Beauty and Effort?

While it might seem odd to cry at a landscape or during exercise, there are several reasons why this happens.

Physical Effort & Achievement

Whether climbing a steep hill or running, reaching a milestone in physical activity brings a sense of accomplishment. The effort you put in, the struggle along the way, and the final moment of success can all trigger an emotional response.

The Power of Awe

The natural world has an incredible ability to make us feel small in the best way possible. Looking out over a valley, seeing the sunlight on water, or running alongside a calm canal can overwhelm us with a sense of wonder. Psychologists describe this as the ‘awe’ effect—a moment where we feel deeply connected to something greater than ourselves.

The Runner’s High and Endorphins

Exercise releases endorphins, which boost our mood, but they can also make us more emotionally sensitive. The combination of exertion and nature’s beauty can tip us over into tears — not of sadness, but of joy and release.

A Meditative Flow State

Both running and hiking encourage a rhythm that quiets the mind, much like meditation. This “flow state” can bring emotions to the surface that we may not have realised were there. It’s almost as if the body, through movement, gives us permission to feel more deeply.

An Emotional Release We Didn’t Expect

Sometimes, we carry unprocessed emotions without realising it. Exercise, combined with the beauty of nature, can act as a catalyst for release. It’s why people often say they “ran off their stress” or “felt lighter” after a hike. The tears are simply part of that process.

Embrace the Moment

So, what happened to Felicity and me was not unusual. If you’ve ever found yourself crying at the top of a hill or in the middle of a run, don’t be alarmed. It’s a sign that you’re present, engaged, and connected—to yourself, to your surroundings, and to the moment. These are rare and powerful experiences, ones to be embraced rather than questioned.

So the next time nature and movement bring unexpected tears, I won’t hold them back. Instead, I’ll welcome them as proof that I am fully alive!