News — effects of cortisol
The Cortisol Steal: Understanding Its Impact on Hormones and Stress
Posted by Morgan Fisher on
You may have heard the term cortisol steal (or pregnenolone steal) in relation to stress and hormones. It refers to how, under chronic stress, the body prioritizes cortisol production at the expense of other essential hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. For those experiencing high stress, stored trauma, or hormone imbalances, understanding how cortisol affects the body can illuminate frustrating symptoms and offer a path to relief. Common Symptoms of Cortisol Steal The cortisol steal often contributes to frustrating symptoms, such as: Fatigue: With the body constantly producing cortisol, energy levels can feel drained. Sleep Disturbances: High cortisol, particularly...
How Stress and Cortisol Keep You Stuck in Flight Mode
Posted by Morgan Fisher on
How Stress Can Keep You in Survival Mode The flight response is one of the body's natural reactions to stress, and while it's useful in dangerous situations, prolonged activation can leave lasting effects on your body and mind. The constant feeling of wanting to escape or avoid triggers is a clear sign that your nervous system is stuck in survival mode. Let’s explore the nature of this response, the reasons behind it, and how you can begin your healing journey using somatic exercises. Signs of Flight Mode Many people experience symptoms of the flight response without recognizing it as part...
9 Ways High Stress Is Giving You Cortisol Face
Posted by Liz Tenuto on
Have you noticed that your face is puffy when you wake up or you have bags under your eyes, no matter how much sleep or self-care you get? From puffiness to bags to fine lines, these are actually the signs of “cortisol face.” High cortisol levels, triggered by prolonged stress, can silently change your appearance, affecting everything from your skin's texture to facial fat distribution. You may think it’s just aging, but it can be your body’s response to long-term stress. Face before and after releasing excess cortisol: Cortisol face shares symptoms with other stress-related conditions like fatigue, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. When your...
High Cortisol and Perimenopause/Menopause: How They Overlap
Posted by Morgan Fisher on
Feeling like menopause and perimenopause have turned life into an emotional roller coaster? You’re not imagining things! These phases of life bring a range of symptoms that often overlap with those caused by high cortisol levels (that’s your stress hormone in action). So if you're experiencing fatigue, mood swings, sleep issues, weight gain, anxiety — it can feel like a never-ending cycle where stress from one makes the other worse. When estrogen and progesterone levels start to fluctuate or decline, your body’s ability to regulate cortisol takes a hit, making even minor stress feel overwhelming. The result is a loop of...