How can I lower my cortisol? –Clara VT

Great question! 

The key to lowering your cortisol is being able to feel where your areas of tension are. For example, many people recognize regular exercise as a way of reducing your cortisol, but consider the mental energy you are bringing towards it. Many girls struggle with fertility because they engage in too much regular exercise for their calorie intake. 

A meditation practice is also frequently recommended, but I find that breathing exercises seem to be the key in this. So don’t worry about sitting still and clearing your mind as much as how you’re breathing. Have you gotten adequate sleep? I can’t stress this one enough! You should be getting around 8 hours or even 9. A balanced diet that has a variety of all three macros and fun foods without the guilt definitely lowers cortisol and helps your blood sugar regulation. Limit your caffeine to after you eat. Some supplements, such as ashwagandha, phosphatidylserine, and omega-3 fatty acids, may help lower cortisol levels as well (but definitely consult a doctor for your particular situation). And my favorite method is looking for places to laugh. Do you enjoy watching comedies? Do you ever engage in some good old-fashioned fun? Hobbies? Escape into a book! Sometimes lowering your cortisol just comes down to getting out of your head a bit and seeing the forest for the trees. 

Good luck out there!