Cortisol States of glucocorticoid excess are known to be associated with insulin resistance and increased cardiovascular risk. Cortisol production has an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) dependent circadian rhythm with peak levels in the early morning and a nadir at night. ACTH and cortisol are secreted independent of circadian rhythm in response to physical and psychological stress.51 A previous study examining the transcendental meditation and cardiovascular risk revealed decreased cortisol levels.8 A study that has not yet been published by Waters et al hypothesizes that cortisol rhythmicity and response to meals is altered in obesity.57 We hypothesize that mindfulness training will result in decreased late night salivary cortisol levels and decreased serum cortisol levels in response to a glucose challenge.