In the our last episode (Soldiering Through), Betsy and Nicole talked about what happens in our bodies when adrenaline is released. We enter into a state we often call "fight, flight or freeze."
In this episode, we take a look at what happens when cortisol is released. Nadine-Burke Harris does such a good job of explaining this in "The Deepest Well" (referenced in episode 2 "ACES".)

Cortisol is released during a traumatic event but it serves a longer-term function too. It keeps us safe by keeping us on alert. Lighter sleep, blood pressure rises and more blood sugar is available for energy in case a crisis is just around the corner. Cortisol is attributed to the craving for high-fat, high-sugar foods. We need to be ready for a crisis. Our bodies get ready regardless of whether that crisis is a massive food shortage or extreme emotional pain. Your immune system also gets cranked up.

But when this is chronic, it all goes south. This state of being was not intended to be chronic. The biological stress of it can lead to obesity, heart problems, auto-immune disorders, and depression and anxiety. High cortisol levels have a role in weight gain! Fatigue! Brain fog! Even difficulty healing after a cold or from an infection!

Sound familiar????

TED talk on ACES by Nadine Burke-Harris: http://bit.ly/TedTalkNadineBurke-Harris

Shop for "The Deepest Well" online: http://bit.ly/ShopforTheDeepestWell

Fostering Resilient Learners website: https://www.fosteringresilientlearners.org/

Arkansas A.W.A.R.E. website: http://bit.ly/AWAREwebsite

Produced by Donnie Lee
Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
More information: https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/communications/dese-podcasts