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Ways To Reduce Cortisol Levels: Almost every human on Earth experiences stress regularly. Stress is basically how we react to stressful situations or situations that trigger our fears and anxiety. Although it is normal to experience some level of stress, sometimes long-term stress can cause physical and emotional symptoms and unhealthy behaviours that can affect overall health and well-being. High cortisol levels in the body can lead to long-term stress and cause further health problems such as diabetes, weight gain, high blood pressure and many others.

Watch the video below to learn how stress affects the body: 

What Is Cortisol?

According to WebMD, cortisol is a steroid hormone that your adrenal glands, the endocrine glands on top of your kidneys, produce and release. It affects several aspects of your body and mainly helps regulate your body's response to stress.

How To Reduce Cortisol Levels Naturally:

1. Manage Stress

Managing your stress on a daily basis can help in reducing cortisol levels naturally. Practising meditation, breathing exercises, yoga and consuming a healthy diet to manage your stress and promote a healthy body.

2. Relaxation Techniques

Practising relaxing techniques can be effective to reduce stress (Image Credits: Canva)

According to Mayo Clinic, relaxation techniques are a great way to help with stress management. Relaxation isn't only about peace of mind or enjoying a hobby. It's a process that decreases the stress effects on your mind and body. Relaxation techniques can help you cope with everyday stress.

ALSO READ: Add Meditation To Your Daily Routine And Get These Amazing Benefits

3. Healthy Diet

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, chronic stress can affect the body’s use of calories and nutrients in various ways. It raises the body’s metabolic needs and increases the use and excretion of many nutrients. If one does not eat a nutritious diet, a deficiency may occur. Stress also creates a chain reaction of behaviours that can negatively affect eating habits, leading to other health problems down the road. A healthy diet for stress includes green leafy green vegetables, fresh fruits, nuts and seeds, and whole grains.

4. Adequate Sleep

According to WebMD, a good night's sleep makes you able to tackle the day's stress more easily. When you are tired, you are less patient and more easily agitated, which can increase stress. Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.

ALSO READ: Mental Health Tips: 5 Habits To Include In Your Regime For Stress Management

Sleep is an important factor that helps in alleviating stress (Image Credits: Canva)

5. Good Relationships

Formulating good relations with our loved ones can go a long way in reducing cortisol levels and alleviating stress. Healthy relationships let you express yourself without the fear of judgement and promote feelings of security and well-being.

 

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)