If you’ve ever found yourself crying in the shower, you’re not alone. According to new research from Showers to You, 74% of people worldwide have shed tears in the shower. It turns out, there’s real psychological science behind it—and some surprising benefits too.
Experts say the shower is one of the few places we can truly be alone, making it a natural space for emotional release. Clinical psychologist Dr. Amber Johnston explains that the combination of warmth, solitude, and physical relaxation creates “an exponential effect,” allowing the body to release tension and shift into a more relaxed state.
“Hot showers can help foster the chemicals that make us feel connected and lift our mood,” Johnston says. “A quick burst of cold water afterward can even energize the body.”
Counsellor Georgina Sturmer adds that many people hold back their tears in public or even around loved ones due to societal conditioning. “We often don’t feel comfortable crying, so the shower becomes a private space where we can reconnect with our emotions.”
And the act of crying itself? That’s good for you too. Dr. Johnston notes that tears help reduce cortisol, release feel-good endorphins, and stimulate the vagus nerve, which activates the body’s calming response.
Both hot and cold showers have their perks. Warm water relaxes muscles, soothes pain, and triggers oxytocin, while cold water boosts energy, focus, and even resilience.
So, the next time the tears come while you’re rinsing off, don’t fight them. Crying in the shower might just be your body’s way of healing.
Expert commentary courtesy of Showers to You.