Cortisol Belly After 40: Expert Insights from Body Contouring Specialist Jasmina Connelly

A proud Member of MLD UKandan FG-MLD Lymphedema Specialist, Jasmina combines advanced clinical knowledge with hands-on expertise to deliver real, lasting results for her clients. She is also the CEO and founder of Roseline Training Academy, with training centres in Liverpool and London, where she educates therapists in cutting-edge body treatments.

Jasmina has trained professionals across Europe, the US, and the Middle East, and her work has been featured in leading industry publications. A regular exhibitor at Professional Beauty Expo, she continues to inspire practitioners worldwide with her holistic, results-driven approach to body contouring and wellness.

In 2023, Jasmina joined the community of professionals and became Zemits UK ambassador.

For many women over 40, body changes can feel sudden, frustrating, and emotionally challenging. One of the most common concerns is stubborn abdominal fat, often referred to as “cortisol belly.” To understand what’s really happening inside the body – and how to treat it effectively – we spoke with Jasmina Connelly, body contouring specialist and founder of Roseline Training Academy.

With over 20 years of experience, Jasmina works predominantly with perimenopausal and menopausal women and has developed a holistic, nervous-system-led approach to body contouring using advanced Zemits technologies.

Jasmina: “In my clinic, the majority of my clients are mature women, and a significant number are navigating perimenopause or menopause” she explains. “At this stage of life, the natural ageing process contributes to reduced skin elasticity, weakened tissue integrity, and weight gain – particularly around the abdomen.”

She continues: “Time and time again, the stomach is the primary area of concern. It’s where clients notice changes first, and it’s where they feel most vulnerable. Many tell me they’ve stopped going to the beach, avoid wearing dresses, and feel less confident in their bodies.”

According to Jasmina, hormonal shifts make fat loss more challenging.
“The lower belly and waistline become problem zones. The body simply responds differently to diet and exercise now. These areas become resistant to change, no matter how hard clients try.”

But it’s not just about food. “Many women over 40 are living fast-paced, highly stressful lives” she says. “They’re juggling work, family, responsibilities – constantly in go mode. This brings us to one of the biggest issues affecting this demographic: chronically elevated cortisol.”

“Cortisol is the body’s main stress hormone” Jasmina explains. “You’ve probably heard about fight-or-flight mode. When cortisol remains high for long periods, the body thinks it’s in danger and starts storing fat for survival – especially around the abdomen.”

This means fat becomes incredibly difficult to shift. “If cortisol is high, your body refuses to use those fat cells as energy. So even if you eat well and exercise, the belly just won’t budge. That’s why clients feel so frustrated – they’re doing everything right, but nothing changes.”

“My secret weapon is Sisley 2.0 pressotherapy for lymphatic drainage, ”Jasmina reveals. “Pressotherapy doesn’t just move stagnant fluid. It works directly on the parasympathetic nervous system – the rest-and-digest state.”

This is key. “When we regulate the nervous system, cortisol drops. When cortisol drops, fluid retention reduces, inflammation settles, and the body finally feels safe enough to release stored fat.”

Clients also experience whole-body benefits.

“In the later stages of the programme, I introduce radiofrequency” Jasmina explains. “This is specifically to address skin laxity during the inch-loss phase.”

She also uses vacuum therapy.

“Vacuum suction enhances blood flow and helps break down compact, fibrotic fat pockets. Combined with wood therapy and hands-on sculpting, we get beautiful contouring results.”

One of Jasmina’s standout cases involved a 55-year-old client who completed her structured 12-week programme. Clinic visits included:

• Weekly “Belly Blast” sessions (cavitation, vacuum therapy, wood therapy, Brazilian sculpting)
• Bi-weekly pressotherapy and manual lymphatic drainage

Home care:

• Daily dry brushing
• Vibration plate sessions
• Pressotherapy twice weekly
• Topical fat-burning cream

Lifestyle support:

• Dietary changes
• Regular long walks
• Weekly yoga

Results? “She dropped two dress sizes” Jasmina shares proudly.
“Fluid retention reduced, digestion improved, sleep quality improved – and most importantly, the results were sustainable.”

“I always encourage small lifestyle changes” she says.“You don’t need perfection – just consistency.”

Her top tips:

• Prioritise sleep
• Reduce stress
• Walk daily
• Gentle exercise like yoga
• Stay hydrated
• Support lymphatic flow

“Remember, cortisol belly is not about willpower. It’s about physiology.”

“I’m genuinely encouraged to see this conversation becoming more common in our industry, ”Jasmina says.“Women are better informed now. They’re actively seeking holistic support.”

Her advice to practitioners: “Understand the emotional side of body changes. These women are vulnerable. They don’t just want smaller measurements – they want confidence back.”

She adds: “Non-invasive technologies are crucial. They allow us to deliver real results safely, while supporting the nervous system. We’re no longer just sculpting bodies – we’re empowering women long term.”

Struggling with the client's stubborn belly fat? Discover how Zemits technologies, combined with expert protocols, can transform your client's body and wellbeing.