Have fun and laugh
Having fun and laughing are other ways to reduce cortisol. Endorphins are released when you laugh, while stress hormones like cortisol are suppressed. Additionally, it has been connected to improved mood, lessened stress and pain perception, lower blood pressure, and a stronger immune system.
It's interesting to note that both authentic and forced laughter can reduce stress. For instance, laughing yoga, a type of yoga that encourages intentional laughter, has been demonstrated to lower cortisol levels, reduce stress, enhance mood, and boost perceived energy. Having interests can also increase feelings of well-being, which may result in reduced cortisol levels. Gardening reduced levels more than traditional occupational therapy, according to a study involving 49 middle-aged veterans. Those who often engaged in hobbies they actually enjoyed had lower cortisol levels, according to another study involving 1,399 people.