Description

Episode Summary

You might feel like coffee is keeping you going behind the chair — but is it really fueling your energy or just masking exhaustion?

In this episode of The Energized Hairdresser Podcast, Ashley Jo Gillen breaks down what caffeine does to your cortisol levels and why hydration is the true secret to lasting energy and focus.

You’ll learn how water impacts your metabolism, mood, and even your creativity, plus simple ways to balance your love of coffee with better nutrition and hydration habits. If you’re ready to stop running on caffeine and start feeling genuinely energized in the salon, this one’s for you.

💡 Key Takeaways

☕ Coffee & Cortisol

• Coffee can be part of a healthy routine — but it shouldn’t be your only energy source.
• Caffeine spikes cortisol (your stress hormone), which can leave you feeling wired, anxious, and drained.
• Balancing coffee with protein or a real meal prevents blood sugar crashes and burnout.

💧 Hydration & Energy

• Hydration is essential for maintaining steady energy, focus, and mood.
• Drink a glass of water before your morning coffee to reset your system.
• Even small hydration habits throughout the day can have a huge impact.
• Dehydration often disguises itself as hunger, fatigue, or brain fog.

🌿 Healthy Habits Behind the Chair

• Awareness of your true energy sources leads to better wellness and consistency.
• Building a hydration routine supports your nervous system and creativity.
• Staying nourished and hydrated helps you show up as your best self — for your clients and your life beyond the chair.

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 The Coffee Conundrum – Why Stylists Depend on Caffeine
08:26 Understanding Cortisol – How Stress Affects Your Energy
16:28 The Power of Hydration – Water as the Ultimate Energizer
21:35 Balancing Coffee and Water – Simple Habits for Salon Days

Feeling inspired to make small changes that give you big energy?
Join The Energized Hairdresser Collective on Facebook — your space to connect, learn, and get weekly nutrition and wellness support from stylists who get it.

And don’t forget to follow The Energized Hairdresser Podcast so you never miss your next dose of hair, health, and habit inspiration.

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Keywords: coffee, hydration, cortisol, energy, hairdresser, salon wellness, nutrition, caffeine, self-care, healthy habits, behind the chair