Key Takeaways The Paradox Explained: Waking up exhausted yet anxious stems from an abnormal Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) fueled by chronic HPA-axis stress. The Fasted Coffee Trap: Drinking caffeine immediately upon waking exacerbates peak cortisol, triggering blood sugar volatility and an inevitable mid-morning crash. The 4-Step Reset: Early outdoor sunlight, 30g of morning protein, delayed […]