You can’t self improve your way o...

You can’t self improve your way out of burnout: cortisol and chronic stress with Dr. Erin Kinney

Wellish di Sarah Ritondale
S4 · E279
16 set 2026
01:01:56

Note sull'episodio

What if your “healthy” routine is actually spending more energy than it gives you?

In this episode of Wellish, Sarah sits down with naturopathic doctor and The Cortisol Cure author Dr. Erin Kinney to rethink what we’ve been taught about cortisol, chronic stress, and burnout.

Dr. Kinney introduces her Cortisol Bank Account framework: every demand on your body—from work and emotional stress to exercise, caffeine, and even certain wellness practices—requires energy. If you continually spend more than you restore, you may find yourself exhausted, wired at night, dependent on caffeine, struggling with your hormones, or unable to relax without feeling guilty.

Sarah and Dr. Kinney discuss why wellness can become another form of hustle culture, how to tell when you’re running on empty, and how ambitious people can protect their energy without giving up their goals.

In this conversation:

  • Why cortisol isn’t simply a “bad” hormone you need to lower
  • How healthy habits like intense workouts, cold plunges, and elaborate routines can become additional stressors
  • Why relaxing may initially feel uncomfortable or unproductive
  • The connection between chronic stress, energy, hormones, and relationships
  • How “relax reps” can help your body practice slowing down
  • Why eating before caffeine may support steadier energy
  • How to make small energy deposits throughout your day
  • What sustainable wellness looks like when you’re an imperfect human

Because sometimes taking better care of yourself doesn’t require another supplement, routine, or self-improvement project. Sometimes it means giving your body enough energy to support the life you’re already living.

Learn more about Dr. Erin Kinney and The Cortisol Cure: The Cortisol Cure⁠ DrErinKinney.com⁠ Instagram: @drkinney

This conversation is educational and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice.

Parole chiave

nervous system regulation
burnout recovery
cortisol and chronic stress
cortisol bank account
wellness routines burnout
hormonal imbalance and stress
how to restore your energy
tired but wired
stress management for women
Dr. Erin Kinney The Cortisol Cure