Chronic stress can influence your metabolism, sleep, appetite, blood sugar, and where your body tends to carry fat—which makes your nervous system an important part of the belly-fat conversation.

In this solo episode, I’m breaking down what happens to cortisol after you wake up and sharing the simple 10-minute morning routine I want you to try for the next 30 days.

We’ll talk about morning light, your phone, breathwork, movement, hydration, exercise, and how to identify the stressors that may be setting the tone for your entire day. I’ll also explain what I mean by becoming “cortisol flexible” and how you can start working with your stress response instead of constantly feeling controlled by it.

In this episode:

Cortisol, chronic stress, and belly fat
What happens to cortisol after waking
Why morning light matters
The problem with reaching for your phone immediately
A five-minute breathing practice
When to move and exercise
How to perform a morning stress audit
Becoming more "cortisol-flexible"
My 10-minute morning routine
A 30-day challenge you can start tomorrow

Plus: Take my free Nervous System Questionnaire below to discover your current nervous system state and the practices that may support you.

Resources Mentioned

For more resources related to today’s episode, visit the podcast episode page: drmindypelz.com/ep374

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Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, fasting routine, or lifestyle.