Cortisol is a stress hormone that can really wreck your health and wellness if you allow it to.

Through parenthood, work and the general stresses of life, it's easy to watch your cortisol levels rise and get out of control. To have some balance in your life, it's important that you develop some strategies that will help you deal with it on a regular basis.

If you're finding time for everyone but yourself and want to put an end to that, consider these points so that you can begin taking your wellness seriously.

1. Find Your Local Sauna

Look for the spa scene in your area to see which are the best. These spas will have the keys for you to undergo any sort of therapy and stress relieving treatment that you need.

When you go to a spa, ask about what sorts of hot and cold sauna rooms they offer, and look into the therapeutic benefits. For instance, some of these rooms can reach temperatures upwards of 212 degrees Fahrenheit.

Being able to sweat it out allows you to literally burn the stress away, in addition to improving your circulatory health, anti-inflammation, and clearer skin. You can sign up for a spa membership and get plenty of massages and other treatments that will also let you feel light and carefree.

2. Get Out Of Town

Seeing something different is one of the best ways to relieve your stress levels. You don't have to wait until a huge summer vacation to get out of town, so don't limit yourself in this way.

There are countless sites available that let you find deals on flights and hotels, so do some exploring until you find the price that suits you. When you plan a trip, make sure you allow yourself to actually relax.

Leave your cell phone in the room safe and don't worry about browsing the web and engaging in the same time wasting activities that don't let you fully relax at home. False relaxation is a huge reason that people walk around stressed every day. When you really let yourself get 8 to 10 hours of sleep, nap during the day and experience some recreation, your cortisol levels will lower.

Choose your locales wisely so that you're able to accomplish true relaxation and stress relief on any trip you decide to take.

3. Take Up Some Meditative Exercises

Finally, use your mind and body in a way that puts you in meditative states.

Yoga is a great way to sync your mind and body, without getting carried away with your thoughts. There are a lot of health benefits you'll experience when you do yoga, including lower blood pressure, clearer thoughts and less toxins.

Going for walks is also a great meditative exercise. Simply deciding to walk for 20 minutes each morning allows you to get your day started right, without letting anxiety creep up on you.

Believe it or not, simply making your bed is a great meditative exercise. Psychologists and spiritual gurus alike stress the importance of starting your day by making your bed, because you accomplish a goal, quiet your ego and take care of yourself before getting carried away with the stresses of the day.

If you use these suggestions you'll be better able to lower your cortisol and have more balance in your days.