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Writer's pictureStacey Murtagh

Exercise & Cortisol: finding balance in your workouts


Many of us may not pay attention to the workouts that we do, because we have some goals that warrant that specific workout. When we speak of bio-individuality, it's important to remember this applies to everything in life. We are all very different and our body will work differently in comparison to someone else. When we exercise it helps reduce levels of the body's stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. Additionally it helps stimulate the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that are the body's natural painkillers and mood elevators. Raising your cortisol levels through intense exercise is great as it helps lower the cortisol in the evening, supporting better sleep. However, if you are raising your cortisol levels consistently over days or longer, you may find that you stay in a stress response longer than necessary. High cortisol levels can have an impact:

  • High blood pressure

  • Weight gain around the tummy, chin and face

  • Increased stress levels

How to manage your cortisol levels through exercise:

  • Find movement that you enjoy

  • Variety is key: high impact and low impact workouts to support your nervous system

  • Meditation will help lower stress response

Always listen to your body, it will tell you what it needs.

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