Short Bursts of Stress Help Body and Mind at Cellular Level

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 response to stress is to stimulate protective and adaptive mechanisms that can help it better cope with similar challenges in the future. This process is often referred to as "stress-induced adaptive response." Short periods of stress shock our cells and molecules, waking them up from their normal routines. The cells are challenged to restore the balance that was suddenly disrupted by the hormetic stress. Those cells learn to be better-prepared to react in healthy ways to more serious stressors like disease. Also, the shock to the cells helps them to clear debris and counter the negative effects of aging.

 
So, a cold shower or a quick sprint up a steep hill could be worth it for your mind and body. Researchers warn, however, that it may be best to check with a doctor before ratcheting up highly intense hormetic stress.

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Shared by Paul Patton