Some biological researchers are finding that short, quick stressful experiences like extreme temperatures or intense exercise can build up your ability to endure more serious, ongoing chronic stress. Quick but intense bursts of pressure are called hormetic stress. Hormetic stress, also known as hormesis, refers to a phenomenon in which a low dose of a potentially harmful substance or environmental stressor can actually have a beneficial effect on an organism. This is in contrast to the typical response to stress or toxins, in which higher doses tend to have more harmful effects. Hormetic stresses on the human body and mind can strengthen both against serious long-term stressors. Hormetic (good) stress can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Some ways include extreme temperatures such as ice baths, cold showers or hot saunas. Highly intense physical training cranks up the heart rate, which is a sign of a hormetic stressor. Hormesis is thought to occur because the body's natural ...
