Cortisol, such a beautiful, important hormone. It wakes us up in the morning. It acts as an anti-inflammatory. It assists us during emergencies.
However, when consistently high, cortisol triggers blood-loss from the brain, fuels insomnia, stokes inflammation, and wreaks havoc on our immune system.
High cortisol affects the rest of our hormones as well. Because hormones are made from the same ingredient, when one dominates, the others suffer. Hormonal imbalance, of course, opens the door to all types of health issues.
In essence, reducing cortisol is one of the most important things we can do for our health and wellbeing.
In order to navigate rough times, self care is absolutely essential. Unfortunately, it often seems to be the first to go when we feel overwhelmed. It’s important to remember that by practicing self care, we enable ourselves to do our best work, and be our most creative.
There are an endless number of techniques which can help us relax and reduce cortisol.
These include:
EFT Tapping – EFT has been clinically shown to be one of the most effective techniques for reducing cortisol. It’s easy to learn, easy to use, and can be used both with a practitioner and as a self-help technique.
Deep Breathing – Deep breathing, from down low in the belly, turns on the relaxation response and reduces cortisol.
Yoga – Along with toning your body and mind, yoga helps process excess stress and cortisol.
Meditation – Regular meditation has been shown to change the brain, making it more able to handle stress. A less-stressed mind means lower cortisol.
A therapeutic session – A session with a trusted professional can help alleviate worries, relax the mind, and reduce stress-induced cortisol.
A Nature Walk – A beautiful 20-30-minute walk in nature will do wonders to reduce cortisol.
A Salt Bath – Relax and rejuvenate in a magnesium salt bath. It will soothe your muscles, help you detoxify, and reduce cortisol.
A Green Drink – Rich in magnesium, a green drink will help you alkalize your system, tame inflammation, and reduce cortisol.
The list continues with: catching up with a friend, a creative project, your spiritual practice, a delicious meal, good sleep, and any other activity that brings you joy.
Find the essential self-care tools and techniques that work best for you. Integrate them into your daily routines. Help yourself reduce cortisol, so you can relax, and feel and be your best.