Social media has been bursting with this new trend: “cortisol face” and “cortisol tummy”. The videos include links and products for “cortisol detox” that alter the body’s chemistry and elevate the consumer’s attractiveness. Where is the truth?
Cortisol is the body’s stress hormone. It naturally elevates with the body’s fight or flight response. This is a valuable system as stress can provide the physiological motivation for us to make changes and problem solve. When we have the right resources to address our problems the stress is temporary and the body can return to normalcy. Unfortunately, there are long lasting stressors that do not resolve quickly. Chronic stress has been shown to wear on the body and impact one’s overall health, which can alter our appearance in unsatisfactory ways. But can we really “flush” cortisol out our systems?
No, but we can steadily increase our toolbox for managing stressors. Recent research has shown that stress itself does not kill, but how you handle it. Another hormone that can be triggered by stress is oxytocin, often known as the love hormone. It is most popularly triggered by hugs, laughter, holding a little one, and being romantic with one’s partner. Stress can physiologically motivate us to be with people we love, engage in community building, and solve problems together.
Imagine a world, where even our biggest problems can be solved by group effort. Stress being used for good, eradicating chronic stress, and making room for joy. And we all are more attractive when we are smiling at the ones we love. But before you can reap the benefits, you have to get out there. If you are nervous about putting yourself out there, there are things you can try:
- Join a community garden. Meet lovely people in your neighborhood with whom you can skillshare.
- Take a class at Smile. We have so many friendly herbalists who can give you passed down wisdom instead of AI advice.
- Partner with a plant ally. You may remember my blog post on “Natures Intelligence” where I spoke about damiana helping me go out into the community. Perhaps rose, chamomile, or passionflower may be good friends to you.
- Host a pizza party where guests make their own pizzas with oregano, rosemary, and fennel. Invent a special sauce together!
The revolution will not come through detoxes and flushes. The revolution comes from us loving one another and working together. Wishing you the best in your journey!
For More Information:
Holding a Grudge Produces Cortisol and Diminishes Oxytocin
How to Make Stress Your Friend (TED Talk)
American Psychological Association: Manage Stress: Strengthen Your Support Network
Common herbs for stress: The science and strategy of a botanical medicine approach to self-care
Smile Herb Blogs: Stress
Smile Herb Shop: Products to Manage Stress
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