Focus on healthier foods. Avoid highly processed foods and instead choose foods containing a single ingredient whenever possible. Scientists have found a link between a high-glycemic index diet (such foods include sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates, and fast food) and increased cortisol levels. Another study found a link between eating high-calorie foods and a rapid increase in cortisol levels, and another found a link between calorie restriction and an increase in levels of this hormone.
To move. Anything that gets you moving is good for your health. This could be walking, yoga, HIIT or CrossFit.
Write about your failures. One study found that when people wrote about a past negative experience before encountering a new stressor, their cortisol levels decreased compared to those who didn’t write anything down.
meditate. This practice may help reduce cortisol levels in the long term. Evidence shows that this habit increases resilience to uncertainty, anxiety, and the unexpected. Mindfulness meditation is effective in reducing stress levels.
communicating with people. Research shows that social connection can improve well-being and health. One study found that people who spoke in public and had a loved one nearby had lower cortisol levels before speaking than people who did not receive support.
To sleep. In one study, researchers found that cortisol levels increased in insomniacs compared to normal sleepers. Other data showed that sleep loss was associated with increased cortisol levels even the next day.
Enjoy the art or try creating it yourself. In one study, people either listened to relaxing classical music, the sound of running water, or nothing at all. It turned out that the cortisol levels of those who listened to music dropped faster. Another study found that performing arts (45-minute sessions) was associated with lower cortisol levels after participating in the activity compared to baseline. Moreover, the participants made collages, made clay sculptures, and drew with felt-tip pens and did not need special training for this.
News materials cannot be equated with a doctor’s prescription. Consult an expert before making a decision.
Source: Ferra
I am a professional journalist and content creator with extensive experience writing for news websites. I currently work as an author at Gadget Onus, where I specialize in covering hot news topics. My written pieces have been published on some of the biggest media outlets around the world, including The Guardian and BBC News.
