Cortisol, the body's major stress hormone, can be considered analogous to a built-in alarm system. It is produced by adrenal glands which are small triangular organs located on top of the kidneys. This hormone affects certain areas of the brain that control fear, mood, and motivation.

Cortisol has many functions in the body, including but not limited to:

• Managing the body’s usage of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates
• Reducing inflammation
• Controlling the circadian rhythm (sleep/wake cycle)
• Increasing blood glucose levels
• Regulating blood pressure
• Enhancing energy levels to improve stress management and the restoration of balance later