Hack your cortisol awakening response with our best AM stress-busting tips.

It’s the evil twin of the Sunday scaries—Monday morning anxiety. As you probably know all too well, it’s never fun to wake up feeling already stressed to take on the day, and here’s the catch…it probably happens much more often than you want it to. When you’re anxious or worried, your body releases cortisol, otherwise known as the "stress hormone.” But in the morning, typically around 30-45 minutes after you wake up, your body naturally produces more cortisol, with the highest levels usually occurring between 8AM and 10AM. This is what’s known as the cortisol awakening response. The rise in cortisol can make anxiety symptoms worse, increasing your heart rate and adrenaline levels. If you’re already prone to feeling stressed throughout the day, this won’t make waking up in the morning any easier. But! There’s a lot you can do to reduce that spike of anxiety first thing in the morning and start your day feeling relaxed, happier, and generally chill. Read on for our top tips on how to lower cortisol in the morning…

You may not be able to banish morning anxiety entirely, and there will still be days when getting out of bed feels daunting. But these tips should help you break the cycle of morning anxiety and start your day in a better headspace—more relaxed, less stressed, and looking forward to your morning sunlight.

Sources:

• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322335
• https://www.calm.com/blog/how-to-lower-cortisol
• https://www.health.com/how-to-lower-cortisol-7487087
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325808
• https://www.verywellhealth.com/morning-anxiety-6832586