Cortisol in small amounts can be beneficial, as it’s been shown that exercising also leads to the release of this hormone. This helps produce high cardiovascular function, an enhanced immune system and an improved metabolism.

The best way to combat these stresses is to exercise, thus raising the levels of cortisol, before providing yourself with the right nutritional foods and supplements to lower it back down again.

Even a simple jog can help put you on the right track towards releasing healthy amounts of the hormone, as well as enhancing positive physical and mental effects on the brain and body.

Patrick, a physiotherapist from Bend + Mend, advises that doing any physical activity is better than none. For example, choosing to go for a walk during your lunch break is a great way to get started, rather than trying to attempt a 5km run.

High intensity interval training (HIIT) is seen as the most effective cardio-based workout to help gain healthy levels of cortisol. Ensure you have solid rest afterwards to help the cortisol decrease (2-3 times per week). The best thing about many high intensity interval training routines is that you can do them anywhere without any special equipment.

If you’re looking to gain some muscle, weight training is another solid way to increase positive levels of cortisol in the body. The key to weight training is balance. That is, scheduling exercises that focus on different muscle groups. For example, do dumbbell overhead tricep extensions on one day and on another, do single-leg squats as these are different muscle groups.

Once again, make sure to plan proper rests with your training, as overexertion with little time to rest may cause the levels of stress to reach dangerous amounts.