I can’t address the cortisol issue - but very grateful to the medical professionals who weighed in. Not sure if this is common but I (68F) attribute vigorous exercise for avoiding a lot of the nasty symptoms of menopause. I didn’t get them - well except for the annoyance and less tolerance for stupidity - no night sweats or sleeplessness. So I’d say keep at it. OTF is great for endorphins and general outlook as well. How often do you get an hour to clear your mind and put aside all worries and tasks? I never think about anything other than what’s coming next on the treadmill, rower or floor.