Episode Overview:

In this mini Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie dive into the chemistry of your emotions—specifically the push-pull dance between cortisol and oxytocin. Whether you’ve felt constantly on edge, snappy, or totally burnt out, this episode breaks down what’s really happening in your body and why even small, mindful shifts can help you reset.

Key Talking Points:

• Why cortisol rises in everyday situations—especially the chaotic after-school hours.
• The role cortisol plays in anxiety, poor sleep, burnout, and even menopausal weight gain.
• How oxytocin (the “hug hormone”) helps calm your system and restore emotional balance.
• Easy, everyday ways to raise oxytocin: laughter, connection, touch, and mindfulness.
• How being aware of your hormonal state can increase self-compassion and reduce self-judgment.
• Personal stories from Aileen and Julie on what works for them (and when they know each other's cortisol is up!).

Listener Takeaways:

• Ask yourself: What’s one small thing I can do today to lower cortisol or raise oxytocin?
• Notice your body: Can you feel when you shift into fight-or-flight?
• Remember: It’s not just mental—it’s chemical. Go gently with yourself.
• Try this: A walk with a friend, a deep breath, a long hug, a moment of laughter.

💬 Join the Conversation:

Got a go-to ritual that helps lower stress or boost connection? We’d love to hear it. Drop us a DM or voice note, or join our WhatsApp group for honest chats and daily support. Link in the show notes.

Links:

• Join our YKMS WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Jcjq9gzY26G1f1iSV65auZ
• Follow YKMS Podcast on IG @youkeepmesane.pod
• Follow YKMS on FB https://www.facebook.com/YouKeepMeSanePod
• Email us at hello@youkeepmesane.com

Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://www.youkeepmesane.com/subscribe/

Download our FREE e-book: ENOUGH - Just As You Are https://www.youkeepmesane.com/shop/

Hosts: Aileen Harvey & Julie Fahy

Editor: Allia Lenit Galos

See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy for privacy information

Disclaimer:

Remember, we’re two friends sharing our personal experiences and discussing everyday challenges. We’re not qualified coaches or therapists, and our content is for general information and supportive conversation only. If you need professional help, please seek advice from a licensed therapist.