With the constant stream of emotional world events, bizarre weather patterns, and life in general, it can feel like we are all starring in our own reality show.
Since our hormones help write our emotional script, we can choose to be a “Housewives” character with emotional highs and lows, or a “Survivor” with grit, resourcefulness, and a strong inner game. Which one are you?
The “Housewives” Narrative
If you have ever felt like you’re one inconvenience away from a full-blown meltdown, the main culprit is typically cortisol, our stress hormone. Daily pressures can cause cortisol to spike, leaving us feeling frazzled, irritated, and reacting impulsively. I recently went shopping and had an emotional “Housewives” moment. I was feeling frumpy and emotional because I was frustrated at how hard it is to find cute clothes anymore, so I created my own high-drama narrative. Thankfully, I knew how silly I was being. If we don’t stay on top of these emotions, they can lead to more serious emotions, like depression.
The Trap
Staying on this high-drama “Housewives” trajectory isn’t just exhausting—it’s physically damaging. The constant flood of cortisol wreaks havoc on our cells and tissues, which can eventually lead to serious health problems.
Specific examples of what too much cortisol can do:
- Increases blood sugar levels: Cortisol can increase blood sugar levels by breaking down stored glucose in the liver. It’s helpful in the short term, but if cortisol levels stay high for a long time, it can lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
- Suppresses the immune system: Cortisol can suppress the immune system by reducing the production of white blood cells. This can make us more susceptible to infections.
- Increases appetite: Cortisol can increase appetite by stimulating the release of ghrelin, a hormone that makes us feel hungry. This can lead to overeating and weight gain.
- Stores fat: Cortisol can promote the storage of fat around the abdomen. This is because cortisol tells the body to store energy in case of a future threat.
- Metabolism slows down: When we are stressed, our metabolism slows down, which means that we burn fewer calories. This can also contribute to weight gain over time.
Is it possible to reduce stress by simply avoiding challenges? Of course not. But we can learn to manage stress more effectively, and in doing so, rewrite the pace of our own story.
The “Survivor” Mindset
When it comes to lowering cortisol levels and reducing stress, exercising frequently, consistently, and with intensity, is your #1 weapon against drama.
Meet your inner “Survivor” teammates (aka. hormones)
- Endorphins: Our natural armor. Think of endorphins as a powerful defense against stress and a source of pure euphoria. They help us push through challenges like a “Survivor” contestant plowing through an obstacle course.
- Dopamine: Our reward system. Hitting a personal best or mastering a new dance move releases dopamine, building mental resilience and a deep sense of accomplishment. It’s the feeling of “I did that!”
- Serotonin: Our steady anchor. Regular movement keeps serotonin levels stable, promoting a calm mind and clear thinking—the complete opposite of a dramatic outburst.
Can’t join LIVE? We had so much fun at Saturday’s LIVE morning class, we uploaded it to our Recent LIVEstream library under “Tribe Vibes”. Enjoy!
Why Mojo provides an optimal hormone training ground…
- The HIIT Factor: Alternating between bursts of intensity, dance and recovery, trains our body to handle stress and build resilience. We’re training our brain and body to push past fatigue, build grit–and become more acquainted with our fighting spirit. Pushing our limits in a safe space translates directly to an ability to handle real-life issues without a meltdown.
- The Dance Effect: Synchronicity & Synergy. Moving in sync with music and fellow Mojo tribe members releases a dopamine and endorphin cocktail of “feel-good” chemicals. Synchronized movement creates a powerful sense of unity and belonging, a phenomenon psychologists call entrainment. You feel like you are part of something bigger than yourself, which can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Mojo’s Cast of Characters – A Diversified, Supportive Tribe. During isolating and trying times, being part of a diversified, low-key team provides emotional support, shared motivation, and accountability that is a hormone-happy game changer.
- Showing up is half the battle. Our brains can be our trickiest adversary. If you want to feel better, it’s up to you to make the first move. Our brains release dopamine only after we take action. It’s a reward, not a starting point.
- Get lost. Focusing on the powerful feeling of your body in motion is a wonderful way to get quiet your mind and de-stress. It’s not just about burning calories; it’s about regulating your internal system.
A quick shout out to Ryan & Natanya…
Natanya recently hit a rough patch. In order for her to attend any more classes, she needed to find a ride. Ryan has kindly stepped in to help her out. Sending kudos to Ryan for her generosity and celebrating Natanya’s determination to keep Mojo-ing. You inspire us all!
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