High Cortisol: What It Does & How to Lower It Naturally.

High Cortisol: What It Does & How to Lower It Naturally

Have you ever felt constantly on edge, exhausted no matter how much you rest, or struggling with belly fat, bloating, or brain fog? If you nodded yes, high cortisol levels might be playing a bigger role than you think.

🧠 What Is Cortisol?

Cortisol is your body’s primary stress hormone. It’s released by the adrenal glands and helps regulate energy, metabolism, blood pressure, and even digestion. In short bursts, it helps us respond to danger. But when cortisol levels remain high over long periods, it can throw the entire body out of balance.

I’ve been navigating this personally, juggling high blood pressure, bloating, fatigue, and brain fog—alongside chronic health issues like asthma, neuropathy, and the absence of a thyroid. Eventually, I started wondering: What if my symptoms are stress-related?

⚠️ Signs of High Cortisol

Here are common high cortisol symptoms I’ve personally experienced:

• Constant fatigue

• Unexplained belly fat or weight gain

• Bloating or irregular bowel movements

• Brain fog and memory issues

• Mood swings, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm

• High blood pressure

• Trouble sleeping

• Tingling or burning nerve pain (especially with neuropathy)

These are your body’s way of saying, "Hey, I need help."

💪 What High Cortisol Does to Your Body

When cortisol stays elevated for too long, it can lead to serious health imbalances:

• Nervous System: Increases inflammation and worsens symptoms of neuropathy

• Digestive System: Slows digestion, leads to bloating and discomfort

• Immune Function: Weakens your ability to fight illness

• Metabolism: Promotes belly fat and hinders weight loss

• Mental Health: Affects mood, memory, and sleep cycles

If you’re also dealing with conditions like high blood pressure or nerve damage, excess cortisol can amplify those challenges.

🌿 Natural Ways to Lower Cortisol

Here are natural remedies and lifestyle changes that help reduce cortisol levels and restore balance:

1. Gentle Daily Movement
   Walking, stretching, or yoga can regulate stress hormones.

2. Mindful Breathing & Meditation
   Even five minutes a day helps lower cortisol.

3. Reduce Sugar & Processed Foods
   Blood sugar stability supports better hormone regulation.

4. Magnesium for Nerve & Stress Support
   I personally use [this magnesium supplement] (affiliate link) for calming and sleep.

5. Mindful Colouring or Journaling
   Colouring has helped me reconnect with peace and release tension.

6. Herbal Teas & Adaptogens
   Chamomile, ashwagandha, or tulsi can calm the adrenal system.

7. Improved Sleep Hygiene
   Screens off before bed, warm tea, and a good book can work wonders.

💖 What’s Working for Me

Colouring has become my go-to calm-down ritual. It's not just creative—it's therapeutic. Slowing down and using colour to express my mood brings my cortisol down without me even noticing.

I’ve also cut down on sugar, started taking magnesium, and walk every day. These small shifts are making a big impact.

🌟 Try This: Free Colouring Page for Calm

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just want a peaceful moment to yourself, try this:

🌟 Click here to download your free mindful colouring page

You deserve a gentle moment to breathe, reset, and care for your nervous system.

Let’s keep moving forward, one breath and one coloured page at a time. 🌸

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Always consult your doctor about your symptoms or any changes to your health routine.