Technology helps us all manage our busy lives, and most of us could not live without it, however, the incessant app notifications, text messages, calendar invites and emails leave us in a constant state of “fight or flight.” In turn, the average person’s cortisol levels are steadily rising, which has more of an impact on our health than most realize.

Managing cortisol levels is doable with the right knowledge and skillsets, but first, we need to understand what this important hormone is, and how it works in our bodies. Cortisol is produced in our adrenal glands, which are located in the uppermost part of our kidneys. You can think of cortisol as your body’s built-in, internal alarm system. When stress levels are high, the alarm sounds off, then sends signals to our brains. These signals control everything from our mood, fear response, impulses, and motivations.

Cortisol plays a starring role in managing our most important vital, bodily functions. Firstly, cortisol manages how our bodies use and store nutrients, including proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It also works to regulate our blood pressure, but, when levels are high, can increase glucose levels. Cortisol also controls our sleep cycles and can increase energy levels, both of which, are crucial in managing daily stress. The energy it provides us allows us to bounce back after confronting stress or danger, restoring balance. Lastly, contrary to popular belief, cortisol actually works to keep inflammation down, which is important for managing our risks of disease.

As anyone can see, we need cortisol to maintain a healthy body. During stressful situations, cortisol will peak, and then once the stress or “danger” has subsided, our cortisol returns to normal. However, with the incessant “fight or flight” mode that comes with today’s world, our internal alarm system will continue to sound, which inevitably leads to elevated cortisol levels. These elevated levels can absolutely wreck our bodies and lead to numerous health problems, including anxiety and depression, heart disease, obesity, brain fog, digestive disorders, sleep disorders, and so forth.

Therefore, keeping our cortisol levels in check is key to a healthy and happy life. Now, I bet you’re wondering what you can do to maintain healthy cortisol levels, and I will let you know, it’s a lot simpler than you might imagine.

Practicing stress reduction is at the heart of maintaining healthy cortisol levels, and this means getting lots of regular exercise, having good sleep hygiene, and eating a balanced diet are all key. Also, very important, is practicing mindfulness and mediation on a daily basis.

So, the next time you are feeling stressed out and tired, try taking five minutes to find a quiet space to close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths. Concentrating on your breath will allow you to anchor yourself, and rid your body and mind of negative energy and thoughts.

Any amount of meditation will help with alleviating pain, improving focus, lowering stress, and helping you better connect with the world around you. All of the above will aid with lowering and managing cortisol levels, so our bodies can work as intended.

Try it now. Go to a quiet space. Take five minutes for yourself. Take some deep breaths, and focus on anything from your goals for the day, to quieting inner chatter. This useful and life-saving practice has regulated my cortisol levels, along with providing me with a plethora of benefits, and I know it will do the same for you.