Five Habits to Naturally Lower Cortisol Levels
Five Habits to Naturally Lower Cortisol Levels
By Olivia Blackwell - October 30, 2025
By definition, cortisol is our body's hormonal defense to stress. The term “cortisol face” has been buzzing around social media for months now, but navigating a solution can feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, no matter what TikTok might try to tell you, there is no quick-fix method or product that will solely balance your stress hormones. Though cortisol often carries a negative reputation, it plays a crucial role in maintaining balance within the body—issues emerge only when its levels become unregulated.
Too much cortisol can cause symptoms like puffy and inflamed skin, weight gain, digestive issues, and loss of collagen. To naturally lower cortisol levels, there are several places to start—and many are much simpler than you might think.
Prioritize consistent sleep
It sounds simple, but the most luxurious thing you can give your body is rest. Cortisol levels drastically drop when aiming for seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Think of it as your body’s nightly reset, just as essential as your skincare routine or morning matcha.
Move gently, not excessively
While intense workouts can spike cortisol, steady movement helps release it. All movement has its benefits, but try swapping an intense gym session for a long walk, low-impact pilates, or a slow yoga flow. Exercise should energize you, not drain you.
Eat for balance and nourishment
High cortisol thrives on imbalance, so skipping meals or completely cutting carbs can actually make things worse. Focus on whole foods, color on your plate, healthy fats, and enough protein to keep your blood sugar stable. Think Mediterranean diet over crash and “detox” cleanses.
Create a ritual around relaxation
Lowering cortisol isn’t just about what you eat or how you move; it’s also about creating a sense of stillness. A short meditation, journaling before bed, or a few minutes of breathwork can work wonders. The key is consistency; relaxation should be a daily habit, not a luxury.
Limit caffeine and screen time
Two modern-day high cortisol culprits: your morning caffeine overload and endless TikTok scrolling. Try swapping your second latte for green tea and setting small screen boundaries, especially before bed and after waking. Your nervous system and your skin will thank you.
Balancing cortisol isn’t about restriction or perfection; it’s about tuning in. When you care for your body holistically, everything else follows: clearer skin, steadier energy, and that calm, confident glow no serum can replicate.
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