The holidays are approaching fast, and for many people that means stress levels are rising. But what does this really mean for your body, and how can you make it through the season feeling calm, healthy, and “stress-free”?
What Is Stress?
Stress is your body’s natural response to any demand or perceived threat. It can come from physical, emotional, or environmental factors, anything from deciding what socks to wear in the morning to coping with a major life event or trauma.
Meet Cortisol, Your Body’s Main Stress Hormone
During times of stress, your body releases a hormone called cortisol. It’s one of the most important, and often misunderstood, hormones produced by your body.
Cortisol is made by your adrenal glands, two small glands that sit on top of your kidneys like little hats. It plays a key role in:
- Regulating your sleep–wake cycle
- Managing inflammation
- Balancing blood sugar and energy
- Supporting your immune system
When stress occurs, the HPA axis (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis) signals the adrenal glands to release cortisol to help your body respond and adapt.
When Stress Helps, and When It Hurts
Short-term stress can actually be beneficial. It gives your immune system a quick boost, improves energy and focus, and helps control inflammation.
However, when stress becomes chronic and cortisol levels remain elevated for too long, your body begins to suffer. Over time, this can lead to a “crash” and a weakened immune system.
- Fewer infection-fighting cells: Chronic high cortisol reduces lymphocytes, the white blood cells that help defend against viruses and bacteria. That’s why you may notice you get sick right after a prolonged period of stress.
- Increased inflammation: Elevated cortisol can make your body resistant to its anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to autoimmune disease, fatigue, brain fog, and metabolic issues.
- Gut disruption: Long-term stress affects gut health and can lead to “leaky gut”, allowing inflammatory molecules to enter circulation and overstimulate your immune system.
- Immune imbalance: Chronic stress can shift immune activity, leading to more allergies, asthma, or autoimmune flares.
When to Check Cortisol Levels
If you’re struggling with chronic fatigue, recurrent illness, or poor sleep, it may be worth testing your cortisol rhythm. Identifying whether cortisol is too high, too low, or dysregulated can help guide treatment to restore balance.
Supporting Your Immune System Through Stress
Stress is unavoidable, but how your body handles it determines your long-term health. Supporting your cortisol balance can strengthen your immune system, boost your energy, and help you feel your best through the holidays and beyond.
If you suspect stress is affecting your immune system or energy levels, contact Enovative Wellness Center at 602.614.9905 or visit www.EnovativeWellness.com to schedule an appointment and learn how to support your body’s natural resilience.
