Are you stressed, tired and overwhelmed?

There is a direct link between cortisol (your stress hormone), your energy levels and even your nervous system (hello anxiety). When your cortisol levels become out of whack, your energy levels and nervous system will also take a hit. Signs of cortisol imbalance can include, but are not limited to: waking up tired and like you need a few more hours of sleep, going to bed feeling tired but wired and spending most of the night tossing and turning, being a light sleeper, waking in the middle of the night for some unknown reason, feeling tired, fatigued and even anxious during the day, hitting that 3pm slump, always in need of a coffee or craving something sweet.

This cortisol imbalance may also make you feel constantly tired, stressed and overwhelmed. You may be at a point that you feel like you physically and mentally cannot take on another task or commitment in life. The issue with cortisol and stress is that it wreaks havoc over our entire body and will impact our digestion, hormones, nervous system, sleep, gut health, skin and even fertility.

If you suspect your cortisol needs some attention, then here’s somethings you can do:

Address your sleeping patterns:

Cortisol starts to naturally rise of a morning and begins tapering off of an afternoon. It hits it’s lowest point of the day at around 10pm. Aim to be in bed asleep by 10pm and wake around 6am. This will also tie in with your circadian rhythm.

Appreciate the morning sun:

Upon waking, spend some time out in the morning sun. You can do this by walking outside or by simply opening up your blinds and curtains to allow the natural sunlight through. Natural sunlight will help to wake your brain up and boost your natural cortisol levels, resulting in more energy.

Avoid caffeine first thing in the morning:

Coffee first thing in the morning on an empty stomach isn’t benefiting you or your energy the way you think it is. In fact, it’s hindering it. Caffeine first thing in the morning, particularly on an empty stomach will interfere with your body’s natural cortisol awakening response. It will cause your cortisol to peak to early and crash twice as fast. Instead, opt to have a glass of water first thing in the morning, followed by a nutritious breakfast, filled with protein and fats. Aim to have your morning coffee at around 10am.

Avoid stimulating foods:

Processed sugar, alcohol and of course caffeine can and will interrupt your cortisol flow throughout the day. If you find yourself needing a little hit of energy throughout the day, opt for a balanced meal or snack that contains fats, protein and complexed carbs. This will help to stabilise blood sugar levels as well as stabilise your energy and cortisol.

Our cortisol has control over our energy levels and nervous system. If you find you feel tired, stressed, overwhelmed and perhaps even anxious, then it’s time to address your stress hormones.