What is Hormesis?
Biologists use the concept of hormesis to explain how some things that have the potential to hurt us also have the potential to make us stronger. We know this as “no pain, no gain” or “that which doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”

Hormesis is a biological phenomenon in which strategic stress makes the body stronger. The key to benefiting from hormesis is to find the right balance. By exposing our bodies to small amounts of stress, we can help improve our health and longevity. However, it is important to avoid pushing ourselves too far, as excessive stress can be harmful.

Examples of Hormesis

⁃ Cold Exposure: Cold exposure can help stimulate the body’s natural response to stress, which can lead to improved overall health. Some of the hormetic benefits of cold exposure include increased energy expenditure and fat burning, improved circulation and immune system, increased metabolic rate and improved mood. In addition, cold exposure can help reduce inflammation, improve sleep quality, and reduce anxiety and depression. Cold exposure can also help improve cognitive function, reduce stress hormones and improve physical performance.

⁃ Exercise: When we exercise, we put our bodies under stress. This stress causes our muscles to contract and our hearts to pump harder, which can be beneficial for our health. Exercise can help to improve cardiovascular health, build and maintain muscle mass, and improve mental health.

⁃ Fasting: When we don't eat for a period of time, our bodies enter a state of fasting. During fasting, the body uses stored energy in the form of glycogen and fat to power its functions. This can have a number of beneficial effects, including improved insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation, and increased longevity.

Other life experiences that challenge our comfort zones can also be hormetic experiences, causing us to grow mentally and emotionally.

Overall, hormesis is a fascinating phenomenon that can have many benefits for our health. By understanding how it works and how to incorporate it into our lives, we can improve our health and wellbeing.

Learn more about my story, my experience, and how to overcome your own life's challenges to unleash your power in my book, 633 Days Inside: Lessons in Life and Leadership. Available for download at [ Ссылка ]

As I share my experiences with intermittent fasting, I acknowledge that I am not a medical professional and that one should always consult with a physician before undertaking intermittent fasting and making other drastic changes to their diet and lifestyle.

свернуть