How to Lower Cortisol Levels at Night
Cortisol, a hormone created in the adrenal gland, is known as the "stress hormone." It is one of the body's instinctual response hormones in a fight or flight situation. High levels of cortisol at night have been linked to disruptive sleep patterns. Relaxation techniques used before bedtime have been proven to lower cortisol and provide a more restful sleep. Additional effects of high cortisol levels are a lowered immune system and short-term memory loss, among others.
Instructions
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Take a hot bath with Epsom salts before bed. This will help to relax and prepare you for sleep.
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Ask your partner for a foot massage. Sometimes busy brains mean that there is too much energy being spent in the upper part of your body. A relaxing foot massage helps redistribute that energy to other parts of the body.
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3
Turn off the television. Often watching the news and other informative shows can stimulate fear and tension, two emotions which start the secretion of cortisol. Read a book instead to help calm and relax you into a state of pleasure.
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Use calming essential oils, such as lavender and vanilla. Aromatherapy stimulates the senses and relaxes the body.
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Listen to relaxing music that calms your mind and helps you "veg out" as you drift off to sleep.
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