Does crying burn calories?
If I said yes, would you let yourself cry?
We often hold back tears, telling ourselves to “stay strong” or “hold it together.” But what if I told you that crying is not a weakness, it is a natural, healthy way for your body and mind to release tension, regulate emotions, and yes… even burn a few calories?
It is a strange question, does crying burn calories? but it’s one many people quietly wonder about. In this post, I’ll answer that question, explain what really happens to your body when you cry, and why allowing yourself to feel and express your emotions is far more important for your wellbeing than worrying about the numbers.
Does Crying Burn Calories? (Short Answer: Yes, But Not Much)
Yes, crying does burn calories, but only a little.
Crying is a physical activity. When you cry, your heart rate increases, your breathing changes, and your body and mind work to process emotions. All of this uses energy.
On average, crying for 10 minutes might burn about 5–10 calories, roughly the same as standing and fidgeting. So technically, yes, but not nearly enough to consider it a form of exercise.
What Really Happens When You Cry
More important than the calories, crying triggers a series of processes that help restore balance in your body and mind:
Your parasympathetic nervous system activates, helping you calm down after stress.
Your body releases built-up stress hormones, which can leave you feeling lighter.
Your tears help soothe and cleanse, a small act of self-care for your wellbeing.
Crying also signals to others that you need comfort and support, which helps build connection and resilience.
Why Crying Is Good for Your Wellbeing
Crying is not only natural, it is good for your overall wellbeing.
Studies show that shedding tears:
Can help improve your mood over time.
Lowers blood pressure and heart rate after a stressful event.
Strengthens social bonds by showing vulnerability and inviting connection.
In a world that often tells us to hide our emotions, crying is your body and mind’s way of saying: you are human, and you need care.
The Bottom Line
Yes, crying burns a few calories. But that’s not why it’s good for you.
Crying is your body and mind’s natural way to process, release, and regulate emotions, and that is worth so much more than any number on a calorie tracker.
It’s Okay to Cry and It’s Okay to Ask for Help
If you find yourself crying often, feeling overwhelmed, or stuck in difficult emotions, it might be a sign you could use some extra support.
You do no’t have to hold it all in. Therapy can help you process what you’re feeling and find healthier, more balanced ways to care for your wellbeing.
